Gilt Bronze Standing Bodhisattva

A tiny gilt bronze Buddha, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

Yet, its form is enveloped in a dazzling light, shining divinely.

In its left hand, it holds an object that looks like a wish-fulfilling jewel or a water jar. Its right hand faces forward with the back of the hand, showing a slight twisting motion of the body.

The posture, with the weight shifted to the right, creates a subtle dynamism within its stillness, giving a vibrant impression characteristic of small gilt bronze Buddhas from the Sui to Tang dynasties.

The undulations from the chest to the abdomen and thighs are deeply carved, and combined with the simple drapery lines, an expressive bodily form stands out.

The facial features, with elongated eyes and arched eyebrows, are somewhat exotic, and the expression is calm, as if gently closing the eyes.

Looking at its feet, there are carefully carved details even on the tips of the toes, less than 1mm in size. The exquisite detail is captivating.

The body, halo, and four-legged base are cast in a single piece, and the center front of the four-legged base has a crenellated cutout. One of the four legs is missing, making it barely self-standing, so a pedestal was created for stability.

The halo is thought to have originally been circular, with only the base remaining. The back is simple, without carving.

A work that embodies rich artistry in a small form.
It possesses a charm that makes one want to keep it close and glance at it now and then.