Seated Beneath the Beaded Crown

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This polychrome seated deity wears imperial robes on a throne of extraordinary richness, all in gold. A tall crown rises above, a curtain of fine beads hanging before it and two ribbons falling along the cheeks; a long black beard reaches the chest, and the eyes are lowered in repose. Both hands are clasped before the chest, holding a small gem-set golden tablet. The robes run yellow and orange with a blue-green shoulder cape, and on the skirt over each knee a dragon is embroidered in full — red-purple bodies with every scale picked out — while the sash gathers in a knot and falls to the base. The high throne back and arms are carved all over with golden dragons and scrolls, inlaid with red and green stones; the golden rectangular plinth below carries an inscription-like band of carved characters and jewel ornaments, ending in beast-paw feet. Splendid to the last detail yet inward in expression — made for the principal seat of a shrine, or to anchor a room with quiet authority.