Unknown

An Exceptional Life-Size Middle Eastern Gold-Inlaid Steel Deer Sculpture

C. 1960

A Monumental Gilt-Lacquered Bronze Ornamental Sculpture of Vajrasattva: A Masterpiece of Sino-Tibetan Craftsmanship, Late 19th Century, Qing Dynasty This monumental gilt-lacquered bronze ornamental sculpture of Vajrasattva is an extraordinary and commanding piece of art, showcasing the pinnacle of Sino-Tibetan craftsmanship from the late 19th century. The figure of Vajrasattva, one of the most revered deities in Tibetan Buddhism, is meticulously sculpted to embody both spiritual power and artistic excellence. Traditionally representing the bodhisattva of purification and meditation, Vajrasattva is usually depicted holding a bell in one hand and a vajra in the other, symbols of wisdom and method. However, in this striking sculpture, Vajrasattva is shown holding a vishva vajra (the double vajra), a unique and powerful variation of the traditional iconography, which adds a layer of depth and significance to the piece. Vajrasattva: The Symbol of Purification and Divine Power Vajrasattva is widely recognized in Tibetan Buddhism for his role in purification, his indestructible nature symbolized by the vajra, or "diamond scepter," that he typically holds. Traditionally, this tool represents both the clarity of wisdom and the power to destroy ignorance. In this sculpture, however, Vajrasattva holds the vishva vajra, the double vajra, which represents a heightened state of duality and balance in Buddhist philosophy. This variant of the vajra symbolizes the union of wisdom and compassion, a core tenet of the Tibetan Buddhist path to enlightenment. The figure’s posture and serene expression suggest a state of calm contemplation and spiritual power. His stance, along with the carefully sculpted details of his robes and jewelry, emphasizes his elevated status within the Buddhist pantheon. The inclusion of the vishva vajra rather than the usual single vajra speaks to the artist’s sophisticated understanding of the deeper metaphysical meanings and the spiritual completeness that Vajrasattva embodies. Symbolism of the Consort and Aureole: In Tibetan Buddhist art, Vajrasattva is often depicted with his consort, symbolizing the union of wisdom and compassion—the inseparable dual forces needed to achieve spiritual enlightenment. In this ornamental sculpture, the repeated image of Vajrasattva with his consort on the aureole surrounding him emphasizes the importance of this dualistic balance. The consort represents the nurturing and compassionate aspect of Vajrasattva’s being, while his presence embodies the resolute and transformative power of wisdom. This continuous depiction of the divine couple on the aureole enhances the sacred aura of the piece, allowing the viewer to contemplate the harmonious relationship between these spiritual forces, which are central to Buddhist teachings. The divine union is integral to the understanding of Buddhist cosmology, where opposites must be balanced to achieve enlightenment. The visual repetition of this theme through the aureole reinforces the transcendental union that Vajrasattva seeks to cultivate in those who worship or meditate upon him. Gilt-Lacquered Bronze: The Artistry of Sino-Tibetan Metalwork: The craftsmanship of this monumental figure reflects the expertise of late 19th-century Sino-Tibetan metalwork, where traditional Tibetan themes were infused with Chinese artistic sensibilities. Cast in bronze and finished with a rich gilt lacquer, the statue has an otherworldly glow, giving it an ethereal, almost divine presence. The gilding process—applied with exceptional skill—gives the sculpture a striking luminosity that enhances the fine details of the facial features, flowing robes, jewelry, and other elements of the deity’s attire. The technique employed to create this figure speaks to the high level of craftsmanship that flourished during the late Qing Dynasty and early modern Tibetan art. The ornate details of the robes and the fine texture of the sculpture highlight the exceptional skill of the artisans who brought this work to life. The use of gold and lacquer not only reflects the preciousness of the sculpture but also its spiritual significance as an object meant to inspire reverence and meditation. An Ornamental Sculpture of Monumental Scale: Unlike smaller devotional objects, this sculpture is designed as an ornamental masterpiece, intended to make a grand visual and spiritual statement. Its monumental size allows it to dominate any space, offering a commanding presence that is both physically and symbolically impressive. In Buddhist practice, large sculptures of this nature are often placed in temples or meditation halls, where their imposing size and serene presence would encourage contemplation and devotion. The grand scale of the statue further amplifies the spiritual power it is meant to convey. As a representation of Vajrasattva, it is not only a physical object of beauty but also a conduit for meditation, purification, and enlightenment. The scale of the sculpture also emphasizes the divine stature of the deity, highlighting his importance in the Buddhist tradition. Provenance: Acquired in China in circa. 1905 Private Buddhist Temple, Northeast, USA Private Sale Solomon Treasure...

A Monumental, Richly Patinated Bronze Bust of Beethoven by Gaston Veuvenot Leroux (1854-1942) & Eugène Blot, Fondeur This magnificent sculpture powerfully captures the iconic compos...

A Monumental and Truly Exceptional French Patinated Bronze Bust of Jesus Christ, Circa 1858, Signed J. Clesinger, Rome 1858 & F. Barbedienne Fondeur This monumental and extraordinar...

A Monumental French Patinated Bronze Bust of William Shakespeare, after Houdon, by F. Barbedienne Foundry, circa 1870. Masterfully and realistically sculpted in solid bronze, this b...

Polished steel sculpture Unique work Signed and dated on the base Born in Brest and with a scientific background, Haude Bernabé has devoted herself to art since the early 1990s. Her...

Sensuality III is a bronze sculpture with green patina, it is connected to a steel base. The edition size is 8. The sculpture will be shipped in wood crate to render maximum protecti...

Bronze with driftwood handle David Tanych has been building objects since his father gave him a saw, hammer, nails and a block of wood at the age of 10. A veteran home and furnitur...

Bronze with douglas fir handle David Tanych has been building objects since his father gave him a saw, hammer, nails and a block of wood at the age of 10. A veteran home and furnit...