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Lot Essay
This compact yet exquisitely modelled figure of Amitayus, the Buddha of Infinite Life, exemplifies the refinement and spiritual elegance of the Zanabazar artistic tradition. Raised on a bold circular lotus platform articulated with overlapping crenelated petals above ribbed stamens and a beaded upper edge, the base itself reflects the meticulous craftsmanship that defines this school.
Amitayus is depicted seated in serene meditation, holding the bumpa, the vase of long life, from which emerges a cluster of jewelled flowers. His gentle countenance radiates compassion and the vow to liberate all sentient beings. In Buddhist practice, Amitayus is invoked for his power to prolong life and ensure well-being, a devotion that resonated deeply among Qing Manchu and Mongolian patrons, for whom longevity rites were of paramount importance.
This figure belongs to the celebrated Zanabazar school, founded in the 17th century by the polymath and spiritual leader Jebtsundampa Khutukhtu Zanabazar (1635–1723). Works in this tradition are distinguished by lustrous gilding, smooth contours, and harmonious proportions, qualities fully evident here. The fine arch of Amitayus’ brows, the aquiline nose, and the subtle modelling of the lips are hallmarks of Zanabazar’s aesthetic vision, as is the distinctly broad treatment of the lotus petals.
The current lot compares favourably with another Amitayus with an identical base in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, (1992.193.1) as well as a figure of Ratnasambhava sold Christie’s, New York, 17 March 2021, lot 452.
Compact yet monumental in presence, this Amitayus embodies the synthesis of spiritual symbolism and artistic perfection that defines the Zanabazar style. Its exceptional condition, luminous gilding, and historical resonance position it among the most desirable examples of Mongolian sculpture.
Amitayus is depicted seated in serene meditation, holding the bumpa, the vase of long life, from which emerges a cluster of jewelled flowers. His gentle countenance radiates compassion and the vow to liberate all sentient beings. In Buddhist practice, Amitayus is invoked for his power to prolong life and ensure well-being, a devotion that resonated deeply among Qing Manchu and Mongolian patrons, for whom longevity rites were of paramount importance.
This figure belongs to the celebrated Zanabazar school, founded in the 17th century by the polymath and spiritual leader Jebtsundampa Khutukhtu Zanabazar (1635–1723). Works in this tradition are distinguished by lustrous gilding, smooth contours, and harmonious proportions, qualities fully evident here. The fine arch of Amitayus’ brows, the aquiline nose, and the subtle modelling of the lips are hallmarks of Zanabazar’s aesthetic vision, as is the distinctly broad treatment of the lotus petals.
The current lot compares favourably with another Amitayus with an identical base in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, (1992.193.1) as well as a figure of Ratnasambhava sold Christie’s, New York, 17 March 2021, lot 452.
Compact yet monumental in presence, this Amitayus embodies the synthesis of spiritual symbolism and artistic perfection that defines the Zanabazar style. Its exceptional condition, luminous gilding, and historical resonance position it among the most desirable examples of Mongolian sculpture.