Fire Gilt Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Bronze, 19th/20th - Aug 14, 2014 | Auctionata Paddle 8 Ag In Germany
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Fire Gilt Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Bronze, 19th/20th

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Fire Gilt Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Bronze, 19th/20th
Fire Gilt Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Bronze, 19th/20th
Item Details
Description
Fire gilt bronze
Tibet, late 19th / early 20th century
Magnificent, highly detailed figure
Representation with 1000 arms and 11 heads
Removable figure on a round, double lotus plinth
Many attributes in the hands
Sealed with a copper base plate with double vajra symbol and a collector's number
Dimensions: 45 x 25 x 11 cm (height x width x depth)
Very good condition
Provenance: from an important private collection

This detailed, fire gilt bronze figure shows the Avalokiteśvara with ‘thousand arms and eleven heads’, the Bodhisattva of compassion. He is represented in an upright position, the samabhanga, on a round pedestal, which is encircled adorned with lotus leaves in relief. Avalokiteshvara encloses with the two main hands completely the gemstone of wisdom. The deity is surrounded by the mandorla of his numerous hands, which lift up various attributes. The heads of the Bodhisattva become narrower as they extend upwards, invoking the image of a tall crown. Avalokiteshvara is considered as the emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, whose head forms the upper end.



Precious jewelry adorns the body of the figure and a five-leave crown ornate each head. This is a sign of the reign of the five elements. Ribbons of the garment, which is tied around the hips, flutter around the deity and a pleated wrap covers the shoulders. Each face shows a serene expression with a slight smile. The figure is sealed with a copper base plate, which shows the double vajra symbol and a collector's number.



The bronze figure is in very good condition with natural patina and slight signs of wear such as some gold wear. The height is 45 cm, the width is 25 cm and the depth is 11 cm.



Avalokiteshvara

In Mahayana Buddhism, Avalokiteshvara is known as the Bodhisattva of compassion. Literally translated his name roughly means ‘The Lord looking at the world with compassion’. Already at a young age Avalokiteshvara has resolved to support all living creatures and to help them to salvation. He swore an oath never to ease his efforts otherwise he should shatter into a thousand pieces. According to legend he then ranged the world. As he paused to look at his work, he noticed that the suffering of the people did not diminish. This moment let him doubt, so that he broke into a thousand pieces. Immediately countless Buddhas came to him to put him together again. But this time they gave him a thousand arms and eleven heads, so that he could better fulfill his vow.


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Fire Gilt Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Bronze, 19th/20th

Estimate €3,200 - €4,000
See Sold Price
Starting Price €2,000
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Item located in Berlin, de
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Auctionata Paddle 8 AG

Auctionata Paddle 8 AG

Berlin, Germany488 Followers
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