Lot 23B
East Asia, China, Ming to Qing Dynasty, ca. 15th to 18th century CE. An impressive and monumental carved wooden figure of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, seated serenely in meditation upon a broad lotus pedestal. This striking sculpture, measuring over 4 feet tall (1.2 meters), retains remains of its original polychrome pigments - soft reds, blues, and greens - that lend it a timeworn elegance. The pedestal features a columned lower base with recessed panels, the central support bearing faint traces of black character script, likely remnants of an inscription or dedication. Above this rises a second tier of lacquered red openwork balusters, carved with lotus and floral motifs. At the front, a pair of fu lions perch, flanking an openwork sphere that symbolizes guardianship and auspicious power. A statement piece of exceptional scale, this Guanyin would make a commanding focal point in any collection of Asian art or a contemplative interior setting. Size: 17" L x 13" W x 53" H (43.2 cm x 33 cm x 134.6 cm)
On the verso are two rectangular consecration niches - one set high on the back of the head with a small panel cover, now empty, and a second, larger niche lower down that remains open. These niches were created to hold sacred deposits or relics, often tiny scrolls, sutras, prayers, or offerings placed inside to spiritually "activate" the statue. Such consecration practices imbued the sculpture with religious power, connecting it to the teachings and blessings of the Buddha. Over time, these spaces could also serve as places to renew or reaffirm devotion, with new deposits occasionally added during temple rituals. Guanyin's elaborate crown is adorned with a small Buddha in relief at its center, a symbolic emblem known as the Amitabha Buddha, signifying her connection as a compassionate manifestation of the bodhisattva who guides beings toward enlightenment.
Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 - 2005
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#193624
- Condition: Losses to openwork baluster carvings. Repairs to the openwork wooden balusters on either side of the pedestal. Stable pressure fissures and abrasions throughout. Fading and losses to pigments with active flaking when handled. Some lead and arsenic in pigments. Heavily weathered, but overall nice condition.
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