Photograph by Ed Pollard, Hasselblad H4D50 - 2023.

Images(5)

Guanyin of the South Sea (Nanhai Guanyin)

CultureChinese | Yuan Dynasty

Date1279-1368

MediumWood and polychrome (wood with gold and pigments over white gesso ground)

Dimensions55 x 29 x 24 in. (139.7 x 73.7 x 61 cm)

Credit LineMuseum purchase, Membership Fund

Object number44.11.8

Collections

Asian Art

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 107

DescriptionCarved, gilded and polychromed statue of Guan Yin seated in the "lalita" pose, right hand palm upward on raised knee and making a "mudra"; clad in jeweled necklace, flowing garments with the lower folds draped on throne seat. Seated upon "rocky" pedestal to represent the rocky island upon which the goddess is associated.

Label TextGuanyin of the South Sea (Nanhai Guanyin) Chinese, Yuan Dynasty, 1271–1368 C.E. Wood and polychrome Museum purchase, Membership Fund 44.11.8 As a manifestation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Guanyin is a fully enlightened being who helps worshipers attain their own enlightenment. Here she perches atop a rocky pedestal, which represents her mountain island home. Because of her association with the sea, sailors and seafarers especially revere her and look to her when in need. Her soft smile expresses her sympathy and support, while her casually draped silk robes and jewelry suggest her relaxed and gentle nature. ProvenanceThe piece was purchased in 1944 using the Museum Membership Purchase Fund. It was purchased at auction, lot number 783 of Alien Property Custodian Sale of Yamanaka & Co. at Parke-Bernet in New York, June 1944.Published References_Alien Property Custodain Sale of Yamanaka & C0._, Part 1 (NY: Parke Bernet, June 1944), No. 783, Ill. p. 152.