Lot 265 , A Tibetan silver and gold inlaid copper alloy figure of Amitayus/Amitabha, c.15th century, 20.5cm high

A Tibetan silver and gold inlaid copper alloy figure of Amitayus/Amitabha, c.15th century, seated in dhyanasana on a double-lotus base with beaded rim, holding the kalasa, wearing jewellery and headdress, with silver and gold inlay to the garments on his legs, the forehead with a central raised urna, crowned with a foliate tiara, 20.5cm high
Estimate £800-1,200

There are typical small indentations and marks. There is a dent ot the bridge of the nose. There is some wear to the gold and silver inlay on the legs and the silver is mostly tarnished. There are remnants of gilding to the tiara. The base panel is lacking. The whole figure has been given a clear lacquer finish. In good condition with no repairs detected.


ex Dennis Ward collection.

cf. a Tibetan copper alloy seated figure of Tara, dated to the 13th–15th century, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Accession Number: 1987.142.357 which also has gold and silver inlaid decoration. The form of Amitayus is also comparable to the central figure in a trinity also in the Metropolitan Museum, Accession no. 1979.507.1. dated to 15th century Tibet.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £2,600