Early 20th Century Sino-tibetan Gilt Bronze Jambhala Seated On A Lion

An important Sino-Tibetan sculptural group made of bronze or gilded copper alloy, depicting Jambhala, a Buddhist deity associated with prosperity, abundance, and the removal of material and spiritual obstacles.

The attributes make it highly likely that this is Yellow Jambhala. In his right hand, the deity holds a bijapuraka, a fruit similar to a citron that symbolizes fertility and abundance. His left hand supports a long-tailed mongoose. In Himalayan Buddhist iconography, the mongoose spits out jewels and represents both inexhaustible wealth and victory over greed. A collection of carefully modeled jewels also appears beneath the deity.

Jambhala sits atop a Buddhist lion, a symbol of courage, sovereign authority, and spiritual protection. The animal is an essential part of the composition here: its expressive head, mane, legs, powerful body, and curled tail are rendered with great precision. The hand-applied red polychrome, complemented by blue accents and the painted details of the deity, creates a particularly decorative contrast with the gilding.

This work stands out from more common pieces due to the quality and extent of its hand-finished details. The face, hands, feet, crown, jewelry, clothing, and strands of hair were further refined through chiseling and engraving after casting. The crown and ornaments feature inlays of pinkish-red stones, possibly coral.

The group was created from several cast and separately worked elements, which were then assembled by soldering using a traditional technique. The workshop marks and visible joints bear witness to this complex handcrafted production.

The base is sealed with a copper plate engraved with a double vajra, or visvavajra. This is a Buddhist ritual symbol associated with stability, indestructibility, and the order of the universe, and is not a manufacturer’s mark.

Origin: Sino-Tibetan tradition

Period: probably the first half of the 20th century

Materials: gilded bronze or copper alloy, polychrome paint, and gemstones

Height: 18.5 cm

Length: 16.5 cm

Width: 10.8 cm

Weight: 1,663 g

A more precise dating, as well as definitive identification of the stones, would require specialized scientific analysis.

Condition: Good vintage condition, with wear consistent with the age of the gilding and polychrome paint, small surface marks, localized oxidation, and visible traditional soldered joints.

Please examine the photographs carefully; they are an integral part of the description. We will be happy to answer any questions. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include preparation, packaging, and postage.