Qing Dynasty, Circa: Late 19th century
H 33 in (84cm.), W 18" (45cm.), D 12" (30cm.)
Condition: crack and paint loss
A
sublime large wood carving of Kuan Yin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy in the pose
of royal ease with scarves, ropes of pearls, snake armbands, pleated dhoti and
scrolled crown from which emerge two braids, one of which falls down the front
of the figure and wraps around her leg. On her crown is an image of Amitabha Buddha,
of whom she is an emanation. The name Kuan Yin literally means “Sound Observer”.
She is posed on a cloud-like throne, her eyes cast downward in contemplation of
the suffering of sentient beings. Her throne rests atop a column over which her
right foot dangles. The elevated surface and trailing drapery along with the pale
hues of the aged wood give her an ethereal, weightless quality. The fine carving
and elegance of form make this an extraordinary work of art, imbued with spiritual
presence.