Antique Guanyin with Amitabha in Crown, China #16380B-LOK

Description

During the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Guanyin statues were commissioned by provincial artisans for a home altar that were humble and more relatable to the rural devotees as in this statue where she is modestly dressed in a three-part robe seated on a backless chair. She is a matronly figure, with pendulous ears, in meditation (dhyana) symbolizing attainment of spiritual perfection and legs in padmasana covered by her robes.  Her close connection with her spiritual father Amitabha Buddha of Infinite Light is shown in her crown on a waisted lotus throne (padmapita) with the flames of his eternal light in her crown.  As written in the Pure Land Sutra, if upon death a person calls the name of Amitabha with unswerving faith and concentration, Guanyin as the “Bodhisattva Guide of the Souls“ will lead him/her to the Western Pure Land Paradise  (Sukhavati). As one of the Great Chinese Goddesses she is imperially sanctioned and epitomizes the feminine role of compassionate protectors who grant health, long life and safety to all regardless of their social position. Much of the burgundy and red polychrome, gilt and lacquer which covered the piece has been worn by years of use, but it still retains its simple beauty, elegance, and warmth. It is in very good condition for its age and use.The back cavity is has its original bung containing objects placed there when it was consecrated. It is mounted on a modern uniquely crafted hand finished frosted Acrylic base.

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