A large well modelled De Hua figure of Bodhidharma Qing dynasty, 18th century

PROPERTY FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION, MELBOURNE

standing on a reed floating above the domed base of crested waves, wearing a long flowing robe draped over one shoulder leaving the other bare, and falling in layered folds to his bare feet, his hands concealed beneath the wide sleeves, his head turned to the side and face with well defined features in an attentive gaze, coiled locks of hair forming the eyebrows, moustache, beard and curls above his ears, covered overall in a white glaze, an impressed double gourd kiln mark De Hua and a four-character seal mark Pu ji yu ren (virtue extends to all even fishermen) on the reverse, clear glass dome
55 cm high

• Lot Sold $32,000 (Hammer Price)
• $39,040 (Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium)

Provenance

Private Collection, Melbourne
Private Collection, Melbourne, by descent from the above

Bodhidharma was a monk of Indian origin who travelled to China in the sixth century, his teaching became the foundation of Chan Buddhism. He was thought to have crossed the Yangtze river standing barefoot on a reed.
Compare with a figure illustrated by P.J. Donnelly, Blanc-de-Chine, frontispiece; and another from the Collection of Mr and Mrs R.H. Palmer, illustrated in T.O.C.S., 1955-56, 1956-57, no. 95, dated to the 17th century

Condition Report

Very minor frits to the edge of the sleeve, a small chip approx 0.5 cm to one leaf of the reed. Some minor firing cracks on the sleeve of the robe. A small brown spot in the glaze on his right arm below the shoulder. Otherwise generally good condition.

Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT,ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.

CONTACT INFORMATION +

Specialists
	Guy Cairnduff Head Arts & Design Melbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Guy Cairnduff		Geoffrey Smith Chairman Australian & International Art Melbourne  |  Sydney T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 T: +61 (0)2 9302 2402 E: Geoffrey Smith
	Ann Roberts Specialist Consultant, Asian Art Arts & Design Melbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Ann Roberts		Anthony Hurl Specialist Consultant Arts & Design Adelaide T: +61 (0)8 7225 7836 E: Anthony Hur
	Brett Ballard Senior Specialist Australian & International Art Sydney T: +61 (0)2 9302 2402 E: Brett Ballard		Fiona Hayward Senior Specialist Australian & International Art Melbourne T: +61 (0)3 9508 9900 E: Fiona Hayward