Antique Guanyin in Meditation on Tiered Lotus Throne (16959)

Description

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. She is a syncretic deity meaning she is revered by Buddhist, Taoist and Popular Religion devotees. Small Guanyin images made by provincial artisans were and used on a home altar along with Taoist and Popular Religion statues.

During the late Ming and Qing dynasties, Guanyin became a cult figure, especially among commoners in Southern China in rural provincial regions. Local artisans created wood images placed in temples and home altars in most homes. These modest images create a new, humble folk-art genre. This delicate Mahayana Pure Land Buddhism Guanyin sits in meditation (dhyana mudra) representing concentration and peace hands in lap and legs crossed in lotus position (padmasana).

Guanyin whose Sanskrit name is Padmapani  “born of the lotus,” has a close association with the lotus seen on her complex two-part throne. Resting on a footed base, the throne is held up by 9 lotuses, 8 with long stems and flat leaves. Only enlightened beings are depicted on a lotus, the Buddhist symbol of purity and the potential for all beings to achieve enlightenment. She wears a 5-lobed crown reflecting her stature as Buddhist royalty, 3-part robes covered with red for blessings and gilt for prosperity.

The closed cavity with its original cover (bung) indicates it was consecrated in an eye-opening ceremony by a Buddhist monk. Generally the covering and enclosed items were removed when the pieces were retired. The piece is in very good condition for its age with the dark exterior and gilt losses a result of the lacquer darkening naturally over time and smoke from incense and candle offerings.

Click here for the Blog Consecrating Wooden Images to Imbue Them with A Life Force.