Gilt bronze figure "Deity", Ming Dynasty

Gilt bronze sculpture depicting a majestic seated figure with six arms and a serene expression. She wears a tall crown finely decorated with floral motifs and hair arranged in symmetrical locks, with traces of blue pigment visible. Her delicate face is framed by large earrings and a multi-line necklace with embossed floral motifs. Each of her arms carries a symbolic object: two ceremonial sceptres, a peach, a traditional emblem of longevity, and an incense burner, elements associated with ritual and offering.

The figure is seated in the lalitasana position on a base of double rows of lotus petals, with one foot resting on a floral extension. A double vajra (visvavajra), a protective symbol common in devotional images, is engraved on the flat base of the sculpture. The iconography suggests a syncretic deity from Buddhist and Taoist traditions, possibly linked to the ideals of immortality, protection, and ritual wisdom. Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) or later.

Size: 23 x 13 cm

Weight: 2200 g