Kwan
Yin the beneficent Goddess of Compassion, is beloved throughout Tibet, China,
Korea and Japan where she is known as Avolokiteshvara, and Kannon.
This
antique Chinese statue carved of substantial teak wood embodies a deep majesty.
Kwan Yin arises from the Ocean of Immortality. Indeed it is Kwan Yin who fills
the ocean from the nectar of her vase. Lotus flowers arise from the depths with
delicately sculpted paper-thin petals. Behind Kwan Yin, the sacred mountain of
Tai-Shan, one of the five holy mountains of Taoism arises. It is said that Kaun
Yin and the Jade Emperor, rulers of Heaven, descended to Earth on T'ai Shan. Upon
there arrival this mountain streamed forth with life in its multifarious forms.
Here, T'ai Shan is covered with pine and swirls of celestial clouds. The latter
symbolizes good fortune and happiness and are understood to arise from the union
of the two essential principles, yin and yang.
The
scene is reminiscent of traditional Chinese landscape paintings. The sumptuous
flow of Kwan Yin's robes evokes the movement of the elements. Her countenance
reflects peace and tranquility. Her hand is in poised in the mudra of teaching.
This figure is particularly unique in the fusion of highly articulated carvings
with the natural grain and flow of the wood. This statue is in excellent condition
and is an exceptional find from the period. (SD)
Private Collection