A RARE IRON CAST FIGURE OF DHARMATALACHINA, MING DYNASTY (1368-1644)

The back of the figure is bearing a dedicatory inscription.

The early Buddhist canon includes sixteen arhats, those who had attained enlightenment, who through their accomplishments had reached legendary status. Over time, other figures were added to the original group, including Dharmatala, the attendant to the sixteen arhats. He is considered by some to be an emanation of Avalokiteshvara.