Rare Fire-Gilt Bronze Figure of Buddha Amithaba, China, Yongle Fire-gilt bronze China, Yongle Period (1402-1424) Reign mark removed from the front Serene expression with a smile With royal jewelry and a chased garment Fine detailed casting Dhoti around the hips On double encircling lotus throne Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 9 cm (height x width x depth) Very good condition Provenance: from a French private collection Rare, very finely engraved bronze figure with a pronounced smile This Chinese, fire-gilt bronze figure was made during the Yongle period (1402-1424) and represents Buddha. He is seated in padmasana, the lotus position, with both soles of his feet turned upwards. His right hand, lying on his knee, forms the bhumisparsa mudr?, the gesture of touching the earth. His palm is turned inward and his fingers point towards the earth. With this gesture, he calls upon the earth to bear witness to the truth of his words. His left hand is hereby placed upon his foot with the open palm facing upwards. The noble, very finely engraved robe covers his shoulders in flowing shapes and a dhoti is placed around the hips. The body of the figure is decorated with precious, lush jewelry and his face has a serene expression with a distinct smile. His head is graced with a five-leaved crown that symbolizes his superiority over the five elements. The extremely fine hair behind the crown forms a distinct, high topknot and the third eye, the urna, is found in the middle of the forehead. The base of the figure is sealed and bears a double vajra symbol. The bronze figure is in very good condition with a beautiful, authentic patina and only minor signs of wear consistent with age. Slight abrasion of gold here and there is visible. On the front a reign mark has been removed. The figure is 18 cm high and 12 cm wide and 9 cm deep. Starting Bid : 7500