Rare Antique Guanyin Crown with Five Dhyani Buddhas, 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. 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 indicates it was consecrated. 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. It is mounted on a modern uniquely crafted hand finished frosted Acrylic base.