East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A superb and quite sizable wooden sculpture of Guanyin seated in dhanasana atop a lotus flower with hands in the dhyana mudra of meditation. Wearing a tassel-hung beaded necklace and layered robes, the elegant deity gazes calmly downward, the tranquil visage comprised of soft features and surmounted by a piled coiffure behind a crown that features an image of Shakyamuni Buddha. A cavity in the back would have allowed worshippers to place offerings and prayers, while the lotus flower is supported by twisting, openwork legs. The earlobes hang long, according to tradition so that Guanyin can hear and respond to the suffering of all beings. Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara), "The Lord Who Gazes Down At The World", is a bodhisattva portrayed as both male and female who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. Size: 14" L x 17" W x 43" H (35.6 cm x 43.2 cm x 109.2 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. Traditionally 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. Bodhisattvas or Guanyin are associated with compassion and mercy - their long ears significant because they rescue all human beings by hearing their cries for help and the sounds of suffering.
Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection
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#192448
Condition
Professionally repaired and repainted. Missing back cavity. Pressure fissures to wood, areas of old, inactive insect damage, and some nicks and abrasions as shown, but otherwise very nice presentation with patina to wood and nice remaining detail.