A Tibetan gilt bronze figure of Padmasambhava, 18th/19th century
Adorned with a five-skull crown and multiple necklaces and bracelets, he carries a vajra in his right hand and a scorpion in his left, set on a lotus base.
9.5cm high
Acquired by Lt-Col Thomas Moore Kirkwood (1865-1933) while serving with the Indian Army in Tibet from 1903-04, thence by descent to the vendor.
Footnote:The hollow base of this figure is filled with tightly rolled paper scroll prayers and offerings, in the Nepalese tradition. Such figures are often sealed with a metal plate to the underside but this example either never had a plate or it has been lost.
Sold for £4,600
Condition Report
Wear to gilt in places.
Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot. All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.