East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 15th to 17th century CE. A beautiful cast bronze statue of the Bodhisattva Guanyin, also known as Avalokiteshwara, seated in a lotus position, her hands form the karana mudra. Traditionally depicted as less austere than Buddhas with graceful postures and elegant garments, a nod to the riches of the Northwestern Chinese Silk Road, this piece is no exception. Guanyin is heavily adorned with a plumed crown and strands of Japamala (prayer beads) that cascade down her chest, her robes incised with floral motifs, perhaps to symbolize brocade and other precious textiles. This is a large and stunning example, hollow cast, then painted and gilt- she perhaps was part of a temple or shrine, Guanyin was associated with compassion and mercy. Size: 8.5" L x 15" W x 22.75" H (21.6 cm x 38.1 cm x 57.8 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#179863

Flaking and losses to painted pigments. Areas of dark patina and toning. Surface wear commensurate with age, otherwise intact and excellent.