Polychrome ‘Tara’ figure by Hanbaiyu, Tang Dynasty

Carved from Hanbaiyu stone of great purity, with a soft white colour and a certain translucency. The deity is depicted in a seated position, on a lotus throne (padmasana) set upon a tall rectangular base, adorned on three of its sides with lotus reliefs and the Dharmachakra at the centre. The deity’s chest is bare, and both arms are bent with the hands in vitarka mudra, whilst holding long lotus stems that rise towards the shoulders. The expression is serene, with almond-shaped eyes, thin lips and elongated ears; all framed by a tall crown of beautiful petals. With the exception of Tara’s skin, the rest of the figure is covered in vivid pigments forming the floral-patterned robes, and gold leaf that covers the jewellery, flowers and crown with a magnificent lustre. This is a work of great artistic and ritual value that retains the integrity of its polychromy despite its age. Tang Dynasty (618–907) or later.

Size: 33 x 10 x 16.5 (approx.)

Weight: 4796 g

Provenance: Private collection, Hong Kong.