Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th or early 20th century CE. A stunning gilded bronze bust of the head of an Asura, one of the demigods of Buddhism, who have three heads with three faces each. The figure is richly outfitted with a large, pointed crown that encompasses all of the faces, and is painted a deep blue pigment that remains to a great degree, especially on top of the crown. The crown is studded with inlays which would have once held semi-precious stones; a single round piece of turquoise remains. Each head also has flower-shaped earrings, which are again studded with inlays (the heads share an earring where they also share an ear). The faces are peaceful and compassionate looking. A really gorgeous piece! Comes with custom stand. Size: 1.75" W x 2" H (4.4 cm x 5.1 cm); height on stand: 3.2" (8.1 cm)

Provenance: private Salter collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

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#125693

Wear to gilding with some light areas of patina and encrustation. Most of the gemstones that would have studded the crown and earrings are lost.