Figurine: Guanyin (Kannon, Kuanyin, Avalokiteshvara) Bodhisattva

"Description: A fine Chinese wood carving of Guanyin (Kuan Yin) in a seated position with original lacquer and polychrome, 13 1/2” high, Yuan/Early Ming, 14th century. The carvings rendered in this manner and dating from the 14th century are always large in size. A miniature carving of a seated Guanyin from the 14th century is a rarity. The most well known of all the Buddhist Bodhisattvas is Guanyin. The literal meaning of Guanyin is “deity who looks on.” This deity of mercy and compassion is the spiritual son of Buddha of Endless Light. Guanyin is most often represented in Indian style with jewels as well as the lotus (symbol of purity), and/or fly whisk (symbol of obedience), and/or a bottle of heavenly nectar. Although a male deity, it is often represented in female form. It is also the deity of the Southern Sea (Indian Archipelago). This deity is usually placed on a special altar at the back of the great Shakyamuni Buddha, behind a screen, and facing the north door, in the second hall of the Buddhist monastery. There are supposed to be thousands of incarnations or manifestations of Guanyin which are represented in Chinese decorative arts as well as fine art." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 10/29/2007