Guanyin – Bodhisattva Of Compassion, China, Qing Dynasty, Late 19th – Early 20th Century

The sculpture depicts Guanyin (in Sanskrit: the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara). Guanyin is the bodhisattva who embodies compassion; her name means “one who observes sounds,” that is, one who listens to supplications. The goddess is depicted wearing long golden robes, with a veil covering her head and shoulders. Her hands are held horizontally, in a gesture of offering or supporting a gift—typical of depictions of the bodhisattva Guanyin, symbolizing a willingness to help. On her chest, decorative necklaces can be seen, characteristic of the bodhisattva’s iconography.

China, Qing Dynasty, late 19th – early 20th century.
Carved and gilded wood.
Height: 51 cm, width: 15 cm, depth: 15 cm.
Condition: slightly damaged.
In the lower section, there are cracks in the wood and the right foot is missing. The gilding is partially worn away, with a natural patina.