PR arm raised, holding object; PR leg bent in front of figure, PL hand rests on PR knee; circle behind figure's head attached by a bronze pin; mounted on a black base; has its own box

The Bodhisattva Guanyin, 7th-8th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Gilt bronzeexpand_more

Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more  97.60

A bodhisattva is a Buddhist deity who has attained the highest level of enlightenment but delays entering paradise in order to aid other earthly beings. This small, gold-covered bronze sculpture depicts the bodhisattva Guanyin, a beloved figure among many Chinese Buddhists known for his compassion toward the suffering. Here, Guanyin is presented in the lalitasana (“royal ease”) position, cast as an earthly prince to emphasize his ties to the human realm. The small bronze was likely part of an altar shrine where it was probably one of two bodhisattvas flanking a larger central image of the Buddha. A small, exquisitely cast gilt bronze altar would have been an important focal point of private devotion in this domestic setting.

Details
Title
The Bodhisattva Guanyin
Role
Artist
Accession Number
97.60
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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PR arm raised, holding object; PR leg bent in front of figure, PL hand rests on PR knee; circle behind figure's head attached by a bronze pin; mounted on a black base; has its own box