Antique Guanyin in Meditation, China (16955BME) $425

Description

Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, is one of the most beloved Mahayana Buddhist deities, the embodiment of  loving-kindness who hears the cries of all beings, and who is one of the Great Chinese Goddesses – who are compassionate protectors who grant health, long life and safety to all devotees regardless of their social position. During the Qing dynasty, small syncretic images of Guanyin like this antique-Chinese-wood-carving were commissioned by provincial artisans that were more folk-like than regal to place on a home altar along with other spiritual statues. This provincial image has traditional symbols such as pendulous ears, simplified chignon and braids and seated on a plain backless chair, but also has an elaborate headdress and decorative necklace of imperially sanctioned Guanyin images.  She sits in dhyana mudra (meditation) representing the attainment of spiritual perfection or enlightenment. It is a Pure Land Buddhist statue, her 5-lobed crown is centered with radiating bars symbolizing Amitabha Buddha and his aureole that represents the flames of Buddhism.  Guanyin is especially revered by women, as she possesses the power to save women from physical, emotional, and social suffering. The back cavity sealed with its bung indicates it was consecrated. Much of the original polychrome, gilt and lacquer that covers the front and back remain, and it is in good condition with an aged patina, expected minor paint and lacquer losses, scratches, cracks and old insect damage consistent with its age. This carving is part of the VA Collection of Buddhist-Art.

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