Antique Guanyin on Elaborate Lotus Throne, China (19536BKE)

Description

This charming antique-Chinese-wood-carving of Guanyin sits in meditation (dhyana mudra), legs in padmasana soles of her upturned feet visible, hands in lap with thumbs lightly touching. Created by provincial artisan as a provincial folk rather than imperial carvings to be placed on a personal home altar she has softer and modest facial features and is more approachable for the poorer and often less sophisticated populations. Her radiance is captured in her kind elegantly carved face with well-defined rounded features, almond downcast eyes, bud mouth in a sweet smile, and framed by pendulous ears. Thick hair locks are secured by a faded high tiara and fall in knotted braids down her shoulders over long-sleeved outer robes covering her tunic tied at the waist. A defining feature of this enchanting image is the two-part high padmapitha (lotus throne) consisting of a hexagonal base with carved patterns, topped with as a large three-tiered open lotus. The unusually large thin back cavity indicates it was consecrated. Although the original paint and lacquer covering the entire statue have faded and there is insect damage, cracks and chips from age and use, the warmth and serenity of the bodhisattva shines through. She was a syncretic deity blending many cultural and is one of the three Great Chinese Goddesses who epitomize the feminine role of compassionate protectors. This  piece is part of the VA Spiritual-and-Inspirational Collection of Buddhist-Statues.

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