18th Century Tibeto-Chinese Gilt Bronze Maitreya Figure
A Tibeto-Chinese gilt bronze figure of Maitreya, circa 18th century, the diminutive finely cast and gilt bronze figure of Maitreya, future Buddha, with a compassionate expression, delicately modelled hands and other features, such as the dharmacakra and kalasa surmounting the lotus blossoms at each shoulder, and the jewels and crown, the figure standing on a single lotus base. Traces of red and green pigment remain on the diadem. Sealed base., 3.94 in. high, 1.77 in. wide. Provenance: Soo Tze Oriental Antiques, 2000. Other Notes: detailed miniature cast bronzes like this example are amongst the most difficult to cast.
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- Bronze - An alloy of copper and tin, traditionally in the proportions of about 9 parts of copper to 1 part of tin.
The discovery of bronze in Western Asia in the 4th century enabled people to create metal objects which were superior to those previoulsy possible because of its strength and hardness, and it has been used throughout the world for weapons, coins, tools, statuary and other decorative items.
It is very fluid in a molten state, and its hardness, strength when set, and non-corrosive properties makes it most suitable for casting sculpture. - Circa - A Latin term meaning 'about', often used in the antique trade to give an approximate date for the piece, usually considered to be five years on either side of the circa year. Thus, circa 1900 means the piece was made about 1900, probably between 1895 and 1905. The expression is sometimes abbreviated to c.1900.
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