Later Yan Dynasty, 384-407 AD. A gilt-bronze statuette, with Gandharan stylistic influence, featuring Buddha standing against an aureole and lotus-flower nimbus, on a lotus podium with flared legs, flanked by attendants or donors; hatched ornament to the podium, incised text here and to the reverse of the nimbus which translates approximately as: 'A disciple of Buddha had this made to keep his family safe', and the 'Buddha Disciple' with the years for Later Yan (384-407 [389]) to the right. 235 grams, 13.4cm (5 1/4"). Acquired for the ‘Buckingham Collection’ by the late Nik Douglas (1944-2012), renowned author, curator and Asian art expert; the collection formed from the early 1960s to early 1970s; this piece was scheduled to be included in an exhibition entitled ‘Treasures from the Silk Road: Gandhara to Xi’an’, to be held in London from November 2012, but sadly his death prevented this; accompanied by copies of the relevant proposed 2012 exhibition catalogue pages, which dates the piece on artistic grounds to the Early Wei period, circa 5th century AD, and a transcription of the Chinese characters inscribed on the piece; recent translation of the previously undeciphered inscription suggests a more precise date range of 384-407 (389), Later Yan era. Gandhara was a principal gateway through which Buddhism spread to China, with the connection to Gandharan Buddhist statuary and sculpture evident in the style of this piece. Fine condition.