$100
Chinese, 19th century, possibly earlier. Hand carved and polychromed (some minor remnants visible, other areas ebonized) Guanyin, Buddhist deity figure (bodhisattva of mercy or compassion) depicted standing full length barefoot on a lotus blossom base. Figure with calm and content facial expression, elongated ear lobes and eleven headed crown or headdress (one face missing at top). Robed figure wearing a necklace and holding a hand low to body with palm out (missing other hand--however evidence of object). Height 14.3". Note: According to a Buddhist legend from "The Complete Tale of Guanyin and the Southern Seas", Guanyin vowed to never rest until she had freed all sentient beings from the samsara or reincarnation. Despite strenuous effort, she realized that there were still many unhappy beings yet to be saved. After struggling to comprehend the needs of so many, her head split into eleven pieces. The buddha Amitabha, upon seeing her plight gave her the gift of eleven heads to help her hear the cries of those who are suffering. This work illustrates that moment prior to her gift of multiple arms to aid those in need.
Auctioneer:
Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery
Date:
2014-08-09
