East Asia, China, Song Dynasty, ca. 960 to 1279 CE. A striking wooden sculpture of a Guanyin, the bodhisattva of compassion, seated in half-lotus position with hands in different mudras as his long robes form harmonious folds down his body. Adorned in blue red, white, and green pigments, the tranquil figure wears an elaborate gilt necklace, gilt bangles, and an intricate tiara surrounding a towering top bun. Guanyin, known outside China as Avalokiteshvara, "The Lord Who Gazes Down at The World," is often portrayed as both male or female. The soft features and androgynous body combined with the skillfully carved wood gives a stunning impression of ethereal beauty. Size: 8.4" L x 9.8" W x 14.9" H (21.3 cm x 24.9 cm x 37.8 cm)
In Buddhist belief, Bodhisattvas are among the most compassionate beings in the universe, devoting themselves to saving the suffering and helping others achieve enlightenment and Buddhahood. In Chinese art from this time period and earlier, they are depicted as less austere than Buddhas, with graceful postures and elegant garments, a nod to the riches of the Northwestern Chinese Silk Road. This piece is no exception.
A similar wooden sculpture of Guanyin hammered 75,150 euros (equivalent to $97,787 at the time or $137,651.52 with inflation now) on December 15th, 2011 at Sotheby's Paris (lot 108 in "Arts d'Asie").
Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s
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#192280
Condition
Professional repair to some fingers. Area of loss to headdress, proper left thumb, and some chips, nicks, and abrasions throughout. Natural splitting and fissures to wood and some areas of old, inactive insect damage, commensurate with age. Nice remaining pigments and gilding with rich patina.