A BLACK STONE STELE OF AN AVALOKITESHVARA TRIAD, PALA PERIOD Northeastern India, 10^th - 12^th century. The main figure is seated in lalitasana on a double lotus base in front of a mandorla, the hands in vitarkamudra, the face with a serene expression and downcast eyes, framed by circular earrings, the body richly adorned in jewelry, dressed in a dhoti, flanked by two lotus stalks, surmounted by five Buddhas, below the lotus base with two praying figures, elephants and a tara.

Provenance: From an old private collection, by repute acquired in the early 1960s. The collection of Associate Professor Kunal Saigal, Berlin, Germany, acquired from the above in 2010. Belgian trade, acquired from the above. A copy of a signed letter of provenance by associate Prof. Kunal Saigal, Berlin, Germany, confirming all of the above, accompanies this lot.
Condition: Very good condition, commensurate with age. Extensive wear, signs of weathering and erosion, some losses, dents and nicks, and shallow surface scratches.

Weight: 15.9 kg
Dimensions: Height 51 cm

Expert's note: The dense carving, executed in multiple levels of relief, with a fine surface polish overall, and many neatly incised details, is not only typical for the Pala period but also remarkably appealing.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Christie's Paris, 6 July 2022, lot 235
Price: EUR 47,880
Description: A black stone stele of Avalokiteshvara, North India, Pala period, 10th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related form, motif, and identical size.