In Hinduism and Buddhism, the lotus (padma) is a symbol of purity, spontaneous generation, and divine birth as well as the flowering of the mind and freedom from the darkness of this world and usually appears only with enlightened beings. It symbolizes the path to enlightenment: it grows from the mud symbolizing samsara) appears on the surface unsoiled symbolizing purification and in the end rises to produce a beautiful flower symbolizing enlightenment. . Lotus petals represent the spokes of the wheel of existence to which all sentient beings are bound until they reach the stage of awakening and enlightenment and can enter Nirvana. The blossom represents purity and the stem symbolizes Buddhist teachings which give rise to purity of mind. The Lalitavistara Sutra states “…the spirit of man can be spotless, like the new lotus in the muddy water which does not adhere to it.” Guanyin and other Bodhisattvas are often shown holding a lotus and standing or seated on a lotus throne signifying their enlightenment. A lotus throne is called a padmapita. It also has auspicious references, depending different lotus parts, that symbolize fertility, the birth of sons, longevity, high rank, wealth, honor and peace. Lotus buds are often used to pick up lids of pottery and wood vessels. The words for lotus in Chinese have the same meanings as to bind or connect (in marriage), one after the other, uninterrupted, to love, and modesty.
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Heavy brass antique votive Vishnu diya with yoni (womb) shaped cup symbolizing fertility, short walls and spout to store oil and hold the wick, and ornate back panel topped by a lotus bud and 3 lines symbolizing Vishnu. Vishnu diyas are a Hindu tradition of followers called Vaishnavites or Vaishnavas .
This very fine pair of antique carved males fu lions represents the dual nature of these mythical animals: as protective images they are powerful and fierce, as Buddhist images they are whimsical with smiling faces, dangling tongues, hanging ears and bushy tails. They are extremely well carved with harnesses and bells around their necks, detailed manes and tails on high intricately decorated bases to signal their importance. Perfect for enhancing feng shui in a home or office, large finely decorative wood pairs like this are extremely hard to find.
This exceptionally crafted and beautiful footed confection mould was most probably a marriage gift from a wealthy family to the newlyweds as seen its symbolisms. It is elaborated and ornately decorated in vibrant reds and gilt with auspicious symbols for fidelity, fertility and happiness with lotuses and pods filled with seeds, bats, paired fish and intertwined vines representing a life pair, having sons, and other marriage wishes.
The hand crafted Tetsubin teapot displays simple yet elegant design: a scalloped top, gently curved handle, and short rounded spout, textured surface. The body is divided in 4 quadrants with meander border designs and the lid is has tiny diamond shaped indentations and is topped with a lotus shaped knob. A raised manufacturers seal on the back. Like all old Tetsubin cast iron kettles, it has rust on the bottom which can be removed by boiling green tea inside it, and is thus for display purposes only.
The auspicious symbols on this charming document holder which are puns for “harmony and unity in marriage” indicate it was it was probably a wedding gift. And would serve that purpose admirably today as a decorative practical accessory and something you won’t find on a wedding registry.
Guanyin sits on an elaborate lotus throne held by 8 long stemmed and 1 flat leaf lotus as an enlightened being. 5-lobed crown reflects her stature as Buddhist royalty.
White Clad Guanyin in royal ease and karana mudra to expel evil, remove problems and rid sickness or other negativities rarely used for Guanyin. Consecrated for home altar use.
Guanyin’s elegance, compassion and serenity are emphasized in this provincial carving on 3 tiered high lotus throne on a hexagonal base with carved patterns. Portrayed in meditation with flowing robes this consecrated image was designed for personal veneration in a home setting.
Guanyin in lacquer and gilt sits on a lotus throne in meditation atop a decorative footed stand, regally depicted with elegantly draped robes and a 5-lobe crown with a cross hatch design. Consecrated for home altar use.
This provincial Guanyin made for a home altar sits in anjali mudra. Portrayed as humble, approachable, she wears a 5-lobed diadem, hair in a chignon with braids and modest robe seated on a waisted lotus throne with stacked lotuses.
Small table probably was in young couple’s bedroom as a wish for a prosperity, health, and many sons. Panels with Guanyin on a hǒu holding lotuses and rats with melons as fertility symbols. Perfect personal home altar or wedding gift.
Given the auspicious images on this finely crafted red and gilt jewelry box, it was probably a wedding gift for a fortunate couple as a wish for fertility, harmony and many and sons. The doors have a carved lotus symbolizing beauty and purity and the top has 5 bats surrounding a longevity roundel. When depicted on a box, it means as “May you have a harmonious marriage with the Five Blessings” (longevity, health, wealth, virtue and a peaceful death) and signifies completeness, togetherness and harmony.
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