Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Ming Dynasty. An elaborate cream stone pedestal supporting a seated Buddha in high relief. The square base bearing elaborate vegetal and geometric motifs supports a half-hourglass-shaped pedestal. The Buddha, heavily robbed, is perched on stool or chair and swaddled in heavy, flowing robes. He wears a simple corrugated headpiece, which does not cover his prominent, pendulous ears. His eyes are closed but his mouth is open, perhaps indicating a moment in which wisdom is shared, as is also suggested by the pose of his hands, known as the Vitarka. This pose, or mudra, is formed by the forming of a circle with the thumb and forefinger, symbolizing the “Wheel of the Teaching,” while the hands are held at around chest level, as is depicted here. The background is an elaborate series of vegetal motifs. A square hole in the unworked back suggests this piece was probably originally attached to a wall. This stunning piece would form an excellent centre piece to a modern collection. Excellent condition. Size: L:410mm / W:200mm ; 19.5kg. Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.