White jade plaque "Buddha Ksitigarbha", Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644)

A Hetian white jade Buddhist plaque, rectangular with fine quality reliefs. Carved in the early 17th century during the Ming dynasty. Mounted on a custom-made wooden pedestal.

It depicts 'Buddha Ksitigarbha' on the front face, who is revered as one of the four great Bodhisattvas of Chinese Buddhism. His name means "earth" and "womb or possession", and his major function is to save suffering in the world or to guide people to the pure lands. This Bodhisattva does not take satisfaction in praise, but the others feel he is superior, and praise him as having greater compassion and aspiration.

On the back is a verse "本然清淨地 佛藏大慈尊" which is a part of the praise to "Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha" and the sutra. It is surrounded by a frame which, in turn, has a relief of lotus scrolls and above clouds.  

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, from 1980.

Jade size: 11.9 x 4.8 cm; Weight: 112 g

Stand size: 9.5 x 8 x 14.5 cm; Weight: 284 g; Overall height: 15.5 cm