Page 90 - Bonham's Asian Art London November 12, 2015

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A PARCEL-GILT BRONZE FIGURE OF A
GUARDIAN
Ming Dynasty
The figure finely cast seated, wearing a flowing sash
tied in a bow at the waist, the shoulders covered by
a celestial scarf, the right hand resting upon the left
holding an axe, the menacing face with bulging eyes
framed by pendulous ears, the flaming hair held in
place by a skull diadem, wood pedestal, fitted box.
31cm (12 2/8in) high (3).
£20,000 - 30,000
HK$240,000 - 350,000
CNY190,000 - 290,000
明 局部鎏金銅明王坐像
This powerful figure may have been deemed to
serve as one of the Four Heavenly Kings, protectors
of the Buddhist faith, monasteries and dharma
books, who guarded the principal deities enshrined
in the religious hall.
Compare a related bronze figure, Ming dynasty, sold
at Christie’s London, 8 November 2011, lot 205.

88 | BONHAMS