Antique Guanyin with Amitabha in Crown, China (16380)

Description

During the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Guanyin statues were commissioned by provincial artisans for a home altar that were more humble and more relatable to the rural devotees. Irvin identifies 3 of China’s great goddesses as Taoist Queen Mother of the West, Guanyin and Matsu who epitomize the feminine role of compassionate protectors who grant health, long life and safety to all devotees. Each is imperially sanctioned and revered by all regardless of status including provincial followers who embrace Buddhism, Popular Folk Religion and Taoism. They all are displayed on home altars, small local shrines and large temples dedicated to them.

In this impressive carving Guanyin sits on a backless chair on a scalloped base in meditation with legs crossed in padmasana (the lotus position)  with her hands in her lap meditation (dhyana). Her thumbs touch forming a triangle symbolizing the Three Gems of Buddhism: the Buddha, the monastic community (Sangha), and the Buddha’s teachings (the Dharma).

Flowing braids, a jeweled necklace and voluminous robes indicate Guanyin’s regal status, while her pendulous ears, compassion and mindfulness of her downcast eyes, serene contemplative expression, and slight calm smile symbolize her enlightened status. As a provincial statues she is matronly and highly approachable dressed in a modest three-part robe.

Her close connection with her spiritual father Amitabha Buddha of Infinite Light is shown in her three-part diadem is centered with an image of Amitabha  seated on a waisted lotus throne within an aureole surrounded by flames of Buddhism. 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).

Irvin identifies 3 of China’s great goddesses as Taoist Queen Mother of the West, Guanyin and Matsu who epitomize the feminine role of compassionate protectors who grant health, long life and safety to all devotees. Each is imperially sanctioned and revered by all regardless of status including provincial followers who embrace Buddhism, Popular Folk Religion and Taoism. They all are displayed on home altars, small local shrines and large temples dedicated to them.

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 sealed with its original bung containing objects placed there when it was consecrated. It is mounted on a modern uniquely crafted frosted Acrylic base.

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