Northern Wei Dynasty Gilt‑Bronze Dual Bodhisattva Lotus‑Branch Group Sculpture,5th‑6th Century

拍品描述

Dimensions: Total height 37 cm (14.57 inches), distance between the two Bodhisattva statues 28 cm (11.02 inches), each Bodhisattva statue 21 cm (8.27 inches) high. Modern display stand not included in antique dimensions. Condition and Provenance: The two Bodhisattva statues, lotus pedestals, and gilded branch frame are intact and undamaged, with no breaks or missing parts. Most of the original gilding is well preserved. Due to centuries of erosion, some gilding has worn away, exposing the bronze core, which is covered with a thick layer of bronze patina and verdigris. There are no modern welding repairs or subsequent regilding; the original metal body is well preserved. This piece comes from a senior private collector of Asian art in San Diego, California, USA. The collection was acquired in the 1990s through a European antiques gallery. Description: This set of gilded bronze double Bodhisattva statues is an extremely rare composite Buddhist sculpture from the Northern Wei period. The two standing Bodhisattva statues are connected by a curved gilded bronze lotus branch, each Bodhisattva standing on an inverted lotus pedestal. This artwork adheres to the classic aesthetics of Northern Wei sculpture. The Bodhisattva's face is delicate and refined, with gentle eyes and a dignified and serene expression. She wears a simple headdress and an exquisite beaded necklace. She is dressed in a loose, flowing traditional robe, the layers of fabric draped naturally. A long shawl cascades down her shoulders, as if gently caressed by a breeze. The two Bodhisattva statues have different hand gestures, forming a harmonious pair of Bodhisattva figures. The curved lotus branches mimic the stems of lotus flowers in nature. While single gilded bronze Buddha statues are relatively common in the Northern Wei Dynasty, pairings of Bodhisattvas like this are extremely rare. The casting technique is exquisite, the gilding is thick and heavy, and it faithfully preserves the artistic style of the Northern Wei Dynasty. This artifact is an important material for studying Northern Wei religious beliefs, sculptural techniques, and gilded bronze Buddha statues, possessing extremely high artistic, historical, and collectible value. The accompanying modern display stand is for exhibition purposes only.

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