Tibet, second half of the 18^th century. Finely cast, seated on a double cushion, holding his right hand in vitarka mudra while cradling a book in his left, wearing a Gelug cap and voluminous patchwork robes richly carved with elegant folds and delicately draped over his seat. His serene face with full lips, a narrow nose, and almond-shaped eyes with one bearing a lower eyelid that is noticeably larger than the other. The base sealed with a copper plate engraved with a double vajra.

Inscriptions: The reverse of the cushion is inscribed in Tibetan with the number ‘6’, identifying the figure as the sixth Panchen Lama, Palden Yeshe.

Provenance: A noted European private collection. Christie’s Paris, 20 June 2017, lot 120, sold for EUR 10,000 or approx. EUR 12,000 (adjusted for inflation at the time of writing). A French private collection, acquired from the above and thence by descent.
Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, casting irregularities, and few small nicks. The base has been resealed, but the copper plate is probably original.

Weight: 1,086 g
Dimensions: Height 15.1 cm

Lobzang Palden Yeshe (1738-1780) was the sixth Panchen Lama, but the third to hold the title. He is regarded as one of the greatest scholars and teachers in the history of Tibetan Buddhism. He was born 1738 in Tashitse, Shang district, Tsang Province. The 7th Dalai Lama Kelsang Gyatso recognized him as the reincarnation of Panchen Lobsang Yeshe. He received his novice ordination and many religious instructions from the 7th Dalai Lama. In 1762 at Tashi Lhunpo, he declared the recognition of the 8th Dalai Lama, to whom he gave the upaseka ordination and the name Jetsun Lobzang Tenpe Wangchug Jampel Gyatso. He also officiated at the ceremonies where the 8th Dalai Lama received his novice ordination and his full ordination in Lhasa, in 1765 and in 1777 respectively. From time to time, the Dalai Lama received many special instructions on sutras and tantras from the Panchen. Following an invitation from the Manchu Emperor Qianlong he travelled to China in 1779 and gave the Emperor many teachings and instructions. The Emperor appointed him his spiritual preceptor, and showed him much respect.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Sotheby’s New York, 16 September 2015, lot 413
Price: USD 27,500 or approx. EUR 34,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gilt-bronze figure of the great fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, Tibet, 17th/18th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related modeling, manner of casting, and gilding with similar pose, robes, expression, and base. Note the different subject.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Bonhams New York, 17 March 2014, lot 35
Price: USD 23,750 or approx. EUR 29,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gilt copper alloy figure of a hierarch, Tibet, 17^th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related modeling, manner of casting, and gilding, with similar robe, cap, and base. Note the smaller size (12.5 cm) and that this lama is unidentified.