Antique White Hooded Guanyin in Lalitsana #16533XLSE

Description

This striking, beautiful and sensitive carving is White Hooded (also White Clad or White Robed) one of the most frequent portrayed of her 33 manifestations. Introduced in 10^th century Song Dynasty this manifestation portrays her as a humble and modest deity reflecting the features of an ordinary Chinese female, her face cast down in serenity and reflection. As the principal attendant of Amitabha Buddha of Infinite Light she is a main figure in Pure Land Buddhism, the most widespread Buddhist sect. Her white hood here which extends over her shoulders is draped over a stylized image of Amitabha Buddha. She sits in lalitsana, the posture of royal ease with her left knee up and right leg bent and lying sideways. Her left hand with delicate fingers rests above her knee while the rights rests on her pedestal for stability. She sits on a backless rocky throne covered with a cloth with multiple fold patterns. While the carving is dated 18^th century, it has been reset into a base probably from the 19^th century with a carved indentation to receive a detachable aureole and the visual result of this union is quite pleasing. The back cavity is missing its cover, revealing the red paper script placed there during a consecration by a Buddhist monk.  It was originally covered with red paint, gilt and lacquer. Much of the gilt remains and lacquer has darkened naturally over time exacerbated by being placed on an altar with offerings of candles and incense. Given its age and use, it is in very good condition with expected surface and paint losses.