A LONGQUAN CELADON-GLAZED BISCUIT FIGURE OF VIJRAPUTRA Ming dynastyPROPERTY FROM THE COLLECTION OF VAHID KOOROSA LONGQUAN CELADON-GLAZED BISCUIT FIGURE OF VIJRAPUTRAMing dynasty Seated on rockwork with a Buddhist lion cub on one knee, wearing voluminous robes loosely tied below the waist and falling open to reveal the chest and belly, the garments and rockwork covered in a gray-green glaze, the skin unglazed and burnt orange during firing. 4 1/2in (11.4cm) high 明 龍泉青釉露胎羅漢坐像Provenance:Christie's, London (South Kensington), 13 December 2001, lot 463The Eighteen Luohan, or Arhats, are revered as the earliest disciples of Buddha, who were instructed to patiently await the arrival of Maitreya, the Future Buddha. These legendary figures are said to have achieved enlightenment, transcended the cycle of rebirth and serve as protectors of those who have not yet reached this state.Among the eighteen, Vijraputra, also known as Laughing Lion Luohan or Xiaoshi Luohan, is especially noteworthy. He is often depicted with a lion cub as his attribute.