Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period (1736–1795) Pair of Gilt Copper Buddhist Mother Figures: Water-Moon Tara and Alugamaxi Mother

拍品描述

Dimensions: 17.5 cm high, 14 cm wide (approximately 6.9 inches high, 5.5 inches wide); Weight: 1814 g and 1837 g respectively; 18th century; Condition and provenance: Excellent overall condition, heavy bronze casting, retaining original gilding and traces of blue pigment. The surface exhibits natural signs of age and a rustic patina. Inscriptions are clearly visible. Provenance: Private collection, California, USA. Description: This pair of exquisite bronze Buddha statues from the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty demonstrates the superb craftsmanship of the Qing imperial workshops. The statues, representing the Water Moon Mother and the Arugama Mother, are well-preserved and exhibit superb casting techniques. Both statues are cast in high-quality bronze with a dark brown surface. The original gilding is retained on the face and forehead, and traces of blue pigment are still visible on the crown and hair ornaments. Each statue wears an intricately carved five-leaf crown with flowing ribbons hanging from either side. Their faces are round and gentle, their eyebrows delicate, their gaze lowered, and their expressions serene—all typical characteristics of Qianlong court Buddhist statues. The upper body is adorned with elegant necklaces, armlets, bracelets, and silk scarves, the scarves cascading naturally over the shoulders. The folds of the lower garments are realistically depicted, full of dynamism. Both statues sit in a half-lotus posture on double-layered lotus pedestals. The lotus petals are broad and rounded, decorated with beads, another hallmark of Qianlong court Buddhist statues. Each lotus pedestal has a raised rectangular inscription on the front reading "Respectfully Made by the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing Dynasty," with the inscriptions "Water Moon Mother" and "Arugama Mother" respectively inscribed along the lower edge, following the conventions of inscriptions on court Buddhist statues. Water Moon Mother holds a ritual implement in her left hand and forms a mudra with her right; Arugama Mother also holds a ritual implement, conforming to the typical image of Tibetan Buddhism. These Buddha statues are made of thick bronze, with exquisite craftsmanship, an antique patina, well-preserved painted decorations, and complete and consistent inscriptions. They are masterpieces of Tibetan Buddhist sculpture from the Qianlong period, possessing religious significance, artistic value, and extremely high collectible value.

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