16"- 18", heavy metal seated crowned Buddha statue with foo dog at his feet. I don't know what the metal is, but it is a very dark brown.
Purchased from a collector who said that it is from the Ming Dynasty.
Hello Meeghan,
Thank you for your appraisal inquiry with Mearto. The item presented appears to be a bronze or brass sculpture of bodhisattva accompanied by a Tóngshī or foo dog at its feet. Other comparable examples of this object identify the bodhisattva as Mañjuśrī. Mañjuśrī is associated with transcendent wisdom and is known by other names such as Wénshū and more. The bodhisattva is seen with a hand gesture known as "Varada mudra." This mudra symbolizes charity, compassion and boon-granting. The Tóngshī or foo dog is symbolizes protection from harmful spirits. Based on the images the object may date to the 17th - 19th century. In-person examination and x-ray fluorescence examination may reveal further information regarding age and material. The estimate provided is based on recent auction estimates and results of comparable sculptures. Please note that asking or retail prices may vary. The estimate is contingent on a full condition report. Thank you and please take care.
Hi Meeghan. Yes, typically a Fair Market Value is considered to be a fair estimate a collector or buyer would pay for a preowned object. Mearto has a great page explaining the difference in FMV and Insurance value (https://mearto.com/fmv-iv). Thank you.
How do I change this from private to otherwise?
Hi Meeghan,
I am very sorry but I cannot assist you with that function. However, you may contact [email protected]. Lindsey or Maybelle will be able to publish this to our auction house database for you. Have a great day.
Is Fair Market Value what a collector and/or reseller might pay?