Lot 82
Central Asia, Himalayan region, Tibet ca. 19th century CE. A beautiful but fierce cast gilt-brass Wrathful Deity, a Mahayana Buddhist figure known as Vajrapani- gilt with 30.6% gold (equivalent to 7K+). Wrathful Deities assume savage phenotypes to protect Buddhism from threatening enemies - he stands on a lotus petal pedestal; the hollow base has a copper plate seal stamped with a dorje and yin and yang symbol. The figure is cast separately and attached by his feet- his hands form mudra gestures, and the portly body is covered with a loincloth, flower garlands, and jewelry. The face is wrathful with bared teeth, and flared nostrils under glaring eyes - a third eye is set in his brow and a crown upon his flaming hair- his hairs highlighted with red pigments. The attention to details on the beading and petals indicate excellent craftsmanship - the fine details are often overlooked in modern casts! This is an overall outstanding example of devotional Buddhist iconography! Size: 7.5" L x 4.25" W x 10" H (19 cm x 10.8 cm x 25.4 cm); gold quality: 30.6% (equivalent to 7K+)
Vajrapani, the bodhisattva whose name literally means "Indestructible Hand" or the hand of Buddha - an emblem of Buddha's power. Vajrapani is often depicted as a raksha or demon, with a wrathful expression to instill fear and respect and a combative stance- ready to spring into action.
Provenance: private Loveland, Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection, 1996
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#177688
- Condition: Some fading and losses to gilt, black toning and patina, but overall excellent preservation to gilt and red pigments. Minor surface nicks and wear, but figure is intact and well preserved. Copper plate sealing the base is intact. Great condition!
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| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |