Large "Shuiyue Guanyin" polychrome wood, China.

Carved wood with polychrome. It represents Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin) the bodhisattva of compassion widely represented in Chinese Buddhist sculpture. The posture in which he is seated and looking at the reflection of the moon in the water (shuiyue), and his nature, in tune with the sounds of the world (guanyin). The details of the figure are expertly carved from the clothing, hands and feet, face and headdress.

Wooden sculptures of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara experienced their heyday soon after the Song period. Avalokiteshvara became popular as the deity who answers prayers and protects the faithful from catastrophes.

Size: 118 x 45 x 58 cm approx.