Life-size antique wooden Guanyin or Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara
Description
Beautiful, antique wooden Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, probably from the 18th century. Also known as Guanyin, the Chinese interpretation of the Indian Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.
The Water Moon Avalokiteshvara is a bodhisattva of comfort and mercy, associated with compassion. Its Chinese name, Guanyin, refers to its posture, seated in contemplation of the moon’s reflection on the water, and its nature, attuned to the sounds of the world. Guanyin is known as the savior of those in need. His presence brings a sense of comfort and protection.
This life-size Bodhisattva has a weathered patina that gives it a unique appearance. He is dressed like an Indian prince in a long, flowing robe. He sits on a rock in an elegant pose known as ‘royal ease’, which expresses tranquility and grace. His right hand rests on a bent knee and the left extends in a gesture of gift giving as he looks down.
According to legend, he was found meditating on the reflection of the moon in the water, a symbol of illusion and transience. His posture and face embody inner peace and concentration. According to Buddhism, the arm pointing downward symbolizes the transmission of the flow of universal wisdom. The connection with the light side of the universe is reflected in the headdress in which a Buddha is depicted.
A storage area (called zhuangzang) was added to the back of this statue to store ordination materials.
dimensions: h 123 x w 80 x d 51 cm
