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Qing Imperial Palace: Embroidery of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
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Qing Imperial Palace: Embroidery of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
CHINA, Beijing; Qing dynasty (1644–1911), dated 1736–1795; By Jiang Wangshi; Silk; 96 x 52 cm; Palace Museum, Beijing, China
This embroidery was created by Jiang Wangshi, an artist during the rule of Emperor Qianlong (reigned 1736-1795) of the Qing dynasty. It was originally kept in the collection of the Qing Imperial Palace.
Avalokitesvara is depicted as a refined Chinese lady with a delicate oval face, small eyes, and long eyebrows. The eyebrows, eyes, and hair are painted onto the silk. The Bodhisattva's hair is done up in a cloud shape and two tresses hang down over the shoulders. The dress has narrow sleeves and is tied at the waist with a silk cord. Two ribbons with ornaments attached hang down from the waist. Avalokitesvara holds a willow branch in her left hand. Her head turns to the right to look down at a bird, which has prayer beads in its mouth. The bird has a red beak and claws, black eyes, and white feathers.
The embroiderer used a fine thread and various techniques, such as straight, cross, couching, and slanting stitch. Emperor Qianlong's imperial seal of artistic approval is located in the corner of the embroidery. |
