Antique Rare Consecrated Guanyin Five Dhyani Vajrayana Buddha Crown, Lucite Base, China (16557)

This modest simple elegant carving of Guanyin with plain robes, absence of stylized decorative details, simple unadorned base and humble demeanor was done by a provincial artisan far from the center of imperial rules and rigidity. It  presents a calm and serene relatable figure with beautifully rendered facial details.

Here she is seated in meditation (dhyana) on a double tiered lotus throne (padmapita) with the hands in lap,  palms upwards, with extended fingers and legs in padmasana, bare feet upward atop the opposing thighs. The stattue’s uniqueness is its  five-lobed crown with the five Dhyani Buddhas, the Five Wisdom Buddhas of Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhism (very rare for China) and centered by a lobe with carved rays of light indicating the Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light. The tiered crown structure seen from behind indicates it was probably created in a regional workshop such as those in Fujian or Hunan provinces) which specialized in wooden religious icons during this period. Guanyin is one of the Great Chinese Goddesses who epitomize the feminine role of compassionate protectors, grant health, long life and safety to all devotees regardless of their rank or status and she is embraced by Buddhist, Taoist and Popular Religion devotees. The sealed bung on the rear cavity is extremely rare and indicates it was consecrated. The tight fit, flush wooden plug, and layers of old lacquer over the cavity seams indicate it was sealed at the time of manufacture and has remained undisturbed for over 200 years and naturally gathered thick incense soot on the front and paint flaking on the unprotected back. Sealed consecration cavities are extremely rare and add to the overall appeal and value of the piece.

Most of the paint and lacquer is gone leaving  traces of red, white, and flesh color morphing to beige on the face and the remaining lacquer has naturally darkened over time.It is in very good condition with expected chips, cracks and paint losses. Small Guanyin images made by provincial artisans were extremely popular in the Ming and Qing Dynasties and used on a home altar along with Taoist and Popular Religion statues.  Mounted on hand finished frosted Lucite  base. 

Click here for the Blog Consecrating Wooden Images to Imbue Them with A Life Force

AI Summary Comments

The high collector value of this Guanyin relies on a combination of religious history, rarity, and market trends. A Dhyani representation is unique An unopened consecration cavity is the single greatest value driver for a wooden Buddhist statue. To Buddhist collectors, an unopened cavity means the statue still holds its original spiritual “soul” or consecrated blessing, dramatically elevating its desirability