MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)

The present gilt-bronze figure of Vairocana is an excellent example of its type, exhibiting fine casting, especially in the hems of the robes and the openwork crown. Vairochana is considered to be the Great Solar Buddha of Light and Truth, and is the Bliss Body of the historical Buddha in Buddhist Law. Vairochana is also considered one of the Five Dhyani Buddhas, also known as the Five Wisdom Tathagatas, which are representations of the five qualities of the Buddha. The latter is represented by the five diminutive Buddha images in the crown of the present figure.

A few related examples in gilt-bronze have been sold at Christie’s; in particular, compare the present work with a gilt-bronze figure of Vairochana sold at Christie’s New York on 15 September 2011, lot 1383.