Lot 49
Tibet, early 20th century CE. This is a copper gao, or prayer box (sometimes spelled Gau or Ghau), with a silver framed and glass front. Inside is a detailed clay sculpture depicting Samvara, a protective Buddhist deity, embracing his shakti (female consort), Vajravarahi. They represent the concept of Yab-Yum, literally "father-mother", which is a common symbol in Indian, Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepalese Buddhism. It represents the male (compassion and skillful means) in sexual union with the female (wisdom and insight). In this statue, Samvara holds Vajravarahi with two of his ten arms; he is also four headed. With his other arms, he holds a variety of objects, including several tools, weapons, and a shrunken head that he grasps by its long hair, which represents the four-faced head of Brahma. Both he and his consort are dressed in finery, wearing jewelry, crowns, and elaborate costumes. They are framed by flames and stand atop a throne. Beneath their feet are two human corpses clutching weapons. Size: 4-1/2" H x 3" W x 1-3/4" L (11.4 cm x 7.6 cm x 4.4 cm).
Provenance: Ex-Private Northern Colorado collection.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#110935
- Condition: Some patina and fading but intact.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 22% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |