Antique Bodhisattva in Meditation, China (16082XSKE)

Description

Although this antique-Chinese-wood-carving does not have the identifying features of Guanyin, this bodhisattva – a Buddhist personage who has attained enlightenment, but who postpones reaching nirvana, the place of perfect peace and happiness, to help others to attain enlightenment – is probably Guanyin.  Like many Buddhist- statues, this image is in the pose considered to be in perfect balance which calms the brain, increases one’s awareness, and increases one’s focus and awareness: seated in the lotus position (padmasana) with the legs crossed and the soles of the feet up and hands in meditation (dhyana) the right hand on top of the left hand, palms facing up and thumbs lightly touching, meditating on the Buddha’s teachings (the dharma) and the path to attain spiritual perfection referred to as bodhi or “awakening”. She is portrayed as a beautiful but modest young woman with a square-shaped face framed by her pendulous but delicate ears and humbly downcast almond-shaped eyes in an aura of serenity and compassion. This beautiful 18th century carving recalls Song Dynasty pieces in which the figures were purposefully elongated in a style that was not only the popular style at the time but also a period considered by the Chinese to represent the apogee of Chinese art and elegance. The image was originally covered with red and gold lacquer now faded and transmuted into an almost silver hue with a soft patina. It is in excellent condition with the expected minor losses. This carving is part of the VA Spiritual-and-Inspirational Collection of Buddhist-Art.