China, late Ming period Vertical painting of a Bodhisattva on paper
Lot 229
This painting depicts the Bodhisattva Wenshu (Manjushri), seated calmly and majestically on a chimera, often identified as a lion, a symbol of strength and protection. Wenshu is depicted in the posture of royal relaxation, holding a ruyi in his hands, with his foot and knee resting on lotus flowers. His half-closed gaze and stable posture exude profound serenity. The lion contrasts with its dynamic energy: its mane and tail swirl in flamboyant curls, while its red-rimmed eyes and open mouth express great intensity. His muscular body, adorned with sinuous lines, adds to his powerful allure, and his head turned towards Wenshu establishes a visual link between them. The sober palette mixes shades of green, beige and white, enhanced by a vibrant magenta red on the edges of the garments. The geometric and floral patterns on the textiles add a touch of refinement. It bears the inscription at bottom right: 萬曆元年 張宏浴手敬繪 - wànli yuán nián Zhang Hóng yù shǒu jìng huì followed by a seal, which could be translated as "The first year of the Wanli era, humbly painted by Zhang Hong after washing his hands (painted with respect/humility)". This painting, although dated 1573 by an apocryphal inscription in both date and signature, probably dates from the late Ming period, 1573
This painting depicts the Bodhisattva Wenshu (Manjushri), seated calmly and majestically on a chimera, often identified as a lion, a symbol of strength and protection. Wenshu is depicted in the posture of royal relaxation, holding a ruyi in his hands, with his foot and knee resting on lotus flowers. His half-closed gaze and stable posture exude profound serenity. The lion contrasts with its dynamic energy: its mane and tail swirl in flamboyant curls, while its red-rimmed eyes and open mouth express great intensity. His muscular body, adorned with sinuous lines, adds to his powerful allure, and his head turned towards Wenshu establishes a visual link between them. The sober palette mixes shades of green, beige and white, enhanced by a vibrant magenta red on the edges of the garments. The geometric and floral patterns on the textiles add a touch of refinement. It bears the inscription at bottom right: 萬曆元年 張宏浴手敬繪 - wànli yuán nián Zhang Hóng yù shǒu jìng huì followed by a seal, which could be translated as "The first year of the Wanli era, humbly painted by Zhang Hong after washing his hands (painted with respect/humility)". This painting, although dated 1573 by an apocryphal inscription in both date and signature, probably dates from the late Ming period, 1573
Mounted on canvas
61.8 x 30.7 in (157.0 x 78.0 cm)
Estimate:
€ 2,000 - 3,000
Auction: 3 days
Ader Maison de ventes
City: Salle 6 - Hôtel Drouot , 9, rue Drouot 75009 Paris