This is a finely carved ivory sculpture of
Kanon (Guanyin, or Avalokitesvara). Kanon is
depicted standing barefoot on a lotus base
grown out of the shore, wearing a high cowl
and long flowing robes, with a serene
expression on her face. She wears a
headpiece that features an image of her
master Amitabha. While holding a vase in her
left hand, her right hand forms the varada
(no-fear) mudra.
Guanyin has become extremely popular in
Chinese folk religion. The invention of his new
forms, such as the Water Moon Form, has
stimulated people’s boundless imagination of
the deity. Derived from the Water Moon Form,
the Taoist Guanyin becomes a female deity
who dresses in an elegant white robe, further
enhancing her purity and transcendental
compassion. This form of representation has
later spread to Japan, establishing itself as
the convention of Guanyin figure, as shown by
this piece.
Kanon's facial features and the way to depict
the sea resemble a conventional Ukiyo-e
style, subtly suggesting the sculpture’s
Japanese origin.
- (RL.1005)
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