East Asia, China, Yuan to early Ming Dynasty, ca. early 14th to 16th century CE. A stunning hand-carved figure of the Boddhisattva known as Puxian (or Samantabhadra), who is associated with action in Chinese Buddhism, draped in many layers of elegant robes that cascade down his slender figure as he sits in half-lotus position atop a white elephant. Crowned by a towering top knot beneath an elaborate diadem, the graceful deity displays traditionally feminine features with a round visage comprised of slender, down-turned eyes, a noble nose, and bowed lips. He displays a ritual gesture, as his right hand is positioned upwards in the Vitarka mudra, symbolic of discussion, and his left is angled down. His cloaks wisp around his body, flowing luxuriously as if blown in the wind. The elephant sits calmly, exhibiting a thick body with a lengthy tail and a curled trunk. Puxian forms part of the Shakyamuni Triad, along with Manjusri and Gautama Buddha. Some believe his sacred mount is the same elephant that appeared to Queen Maya, the mother of the Buddha, to herald his birth. Note the lovely remains of salmon pink, powder blue, sage green, and creamy white pigments that adorn this tranquil sculpture. Size: 15.75" L x 7" W x 24.875" H (40 cm x 17.8 cm x 63.2 cm)

A bodhisattva is a sacred being of Buddhism possessing enormous compassion, a selfless individual willing to forego Buddhahood in order to assist others in attaining Buddhahood for the benefit of all.

Cf. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 34.26.2a, b

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world’s largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010

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#164300

Losses to 8 fingers, proper left foot, and elephant tusks. Repairs to both hands and sash with break lines visible. Natural age fissures to wood throughout. Some ancient re-enforcement to fissures using clay. Expected surface wear with nicks, chips, and abrasions throughout. Otherwise, very nice with liberal remains of pigments.