A TIBETAN GILT-BRONZE DENSATIL-STYLE SCULPTURE OF A BODHISATTVA

C.15TH CENTURY

The finely cast Bodhisattva stands in tribhanga asana and holds a ghanta (bell) in his left hand and a mala (rosary) in his right hand. He wears a diaphanous dhoti with pleated sashes. The jewellery (crown, earrings, necklace, armlets, bracelets) and belt are adorned with semi-precious stones, glass and rock crystal, together with a modern slate stand, 23.5cm, 1.2kg. (2)

Provenance: a London collection since 2005.

This sculpture exhibits a number of stylistic similarities to sculptures known to have been made for the Densatil Monastery (Central Tibet) between the late 14th and late 15th century, which indicate a connection to the Densatil artistic tradition. These include the facial type of the Bodhisattva, the design of the jewellery and of his jewelled belt, the extensive use of glass next to semi-precious stones and a strong Nepali artistic influence. For related examples see 'The Mirror of Mind, Art of Vajrayana Buddhism', Spink and Son Ltd., 1995 cat. nos.16 and 17. U Von Schroeder, 'Indo-Tibetan Bronzes', Hong Kong, p.431, pl.113G.