Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara (Padmapani) – Ladakh, 17th century
A rare four-armed bronze image of Avalokiteshvara Padmapani from the West-Tibetan (Ladakh) tradition, dating to the 17th century. The figure stands gracefully in tribhanga posture, wearing a fine draped sash and a high jatamukuta with the small Amitabha Buddha seated above. The surface shows remains of original 24 kt fire gilding, applied by traditional mercury amalgam technique, now largely worn through centuries of ritual handling.
TAX (Valuation Summary):
Examined with museum-grade analytical methods (UV and microscopic inspection).
Material: Bronze, hollow cast with original wooden base closure.
Surface: Traces of original 24 kt fire gilding (traditional mercury amalgam).
Region: West Tibet / Ladakh.
Period: ca. 1650–1750.
Condition: Excellent authentic surface, natural patina, no modern repairs.
Retail Valuation (1stbuddha): €28,000 – €42,000.
Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara (Padmapani) – Ladakh, 17th century
Description
This remarkable bronze representation of Avalokiteshvara Padmapani, the compassionate Bodhisattva of Infinite Light, belongs to the late-medieval Ladakhi school (ca. 1650–1750). The figure stands with serene poise, holding the lotus in his upper left hand and forming the gesture of charity (varadamudra) with the lower right.
The sculpture is cast in the traditional lost-wax technique and retains its original wooden base plate, still sealed and showing natural patina with salt efflorescence under UV light. The intricate incised decoration — including the sash borders and the rosette belt — exhibits natural wear from centuries of devotional contact, confirming its authentic monastic use.
Microscopic inspection reveals the characteristic granular surface texture of mercury gilding, traces of residual gold within recesses, and naturally oxidized malachite-green corrosion. No signs of modern restoration, soldering, or recasting were found.
This piece belongs stylistically to the same iconographic lineage as the Brooklyn Museum Padmapani (inv. 72.93), though technically older and of heavier casting. A museum-grade example of West-Tibetan craftsmanship, distinguished by its sculptural balance, spiritual serenity, and untouched authenticity.
More on Ladakh bronzes: read the full study.
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Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara (Padmapani) – Ladakh, 17th century
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