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Asian art

Mossgreen to auction important collection of Asian art Dec. 11

Nepalese bronze parcel-gilt figure of Tara, 9th-10th century. Estimate: $150,000-$200,000. Mossgreen image
Nepalese bronze parcel-gilt figure of Tara, 9th-10th century. Estimate: $150,000-$200,000. Mossgreen image

 

SYDNEY, Australia – Mossgreen will auction the Raphy Star Collection of important Asian art on Dec. 11. Featuring rare sculpture, ceramics and works of art, the collection is valued at $3-5 million.

Highlights of the collection will tour to Melbourne, London and Hong Kong prior to the auction in Sydney.

Inspired by the refined aesthetic beauty of Asian art, particularly Buddhist Art, this fine and diverse collection took more than 30 years to build. The objects span the breadth of Asia, from China to Vietnam, Afghanistan, Burma, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Nepal and Tibet.

Leading the auction is an exquisite Nepalese bronze parcel-gilt standing figure of Tara, 9th-10th century (above, estimate: $150,000-$200,000). This rare piece, standing in the traditional ‘Tribhanga’ pose upon a round, lotus pedestal, wears a transparent robe and a three-leaf crown.

Another significant highlight is the large pink Indian sandstone head of Buddha, Mathuran District, Kushan Period, second-third century (estimate: $120,000-$150,000). This rare piece represents one of the earliest examples of Indian Buddhist sculpture.

Other major highlights include a rare Chinese polychrome wood sculpture of a Bodhisattva, Song Dynasty, 11th Century ($100,000-$150,000). Seated in the lotus position, with its head tilted to one side this serene figure is 47cm tall.

“It is without doubt the most important and diverse collection of Asian Art to have been offered at auction in Australia and we expect a high level of interest from discerning collectors and institutions all over the world,” said Paul Sumner, Mossgreen CEO.

This auction will be followed by a second collection of Chinese works of art and scholars objects on Dec. 12.