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Longshan Temple: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
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Longshan Temple: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
CHINA, Fujian, Quanzhou; Qing dynasty (1644–1911); Clay; H: 192 cm; Longshan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan
The statue was brought to Taiwan in 1738 from Longshan Temple in Fujian, China. Toward the end of World War II, the building in which the statue was enshrined was bombed and all but the statue was destroyed. Since then, this Avalokitesvara became highly revered by the people. The statue is now enshrined in the main hall of Longshan Temple in Taipei, Taiwan.
The presence of the Buddha on the figure’s headdress is typical of Avalokitesvara figures. A shawl covers the headdress and the body, garbed in a wide-sleeved robe and a skirt, sits in a stylized full lotus position. The chest is adorned with ornaments inlaid with red and green gems. The right hand is in lotus mudra while the left holds a sutra scroll. The hollow nimbus has a solar surround. |
