The massive Ming figure of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha (click to enlarge).
This massive antique gilt bronze figure of a seated Shakyamuni Buddha sold for US$30 million at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong, setting a new world auction record for a piece of Chinese sculpture. The Ming figure was bought by Mr. Zheng Huaxing of Zhongshan Qujuezhai, Guangdong. It will be returned to China.
There were multiple records at five sales in Hong Kong of fine Chinese Ceramics and works of art, of which the Shakyamuni Buddha was the top lot. The five sales achieved a combined total of US$161.5 million.
Nicolas Chow, Sotheby’s Asia Deputy Chairman and International Head of Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, said: “Our 40 year anniversary sale was an extraordinary success fuelled both by the quality and breadth of the various collections on offer, as well as the dramatic participation of clients from all around the globe. With the early 15th century gilt-bronze Buddha, we have set a record for any Asian work of art. While participation from our mainland clients was comparatively muted for the last couple of seasons, they have made an extraordinary comeback this season, with many of our top lots returning to China.”