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Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
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Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
CHINA; Sui dynasty (581–618), dated 581; Commissioned by Che Changru; Limestone; H: 91.4 cm; Detroit Institute of Arts, Michigan, USA
The Bodhisattva wears a regal headdress and other elaborate jewelry that falls from the neck and belt. The long face looks down with a solemn expression. The figure's right hand holds a willow branch, while the left hand carries a vase. Avalokitesvara stands upon a lotus pedestal with two guardian lions, one of which is now missing. A rectangular base beneath the statue has an inscription dated 581 by a disciple called Che Changru. He prays that his father may be reborn in the Tusita Heaven in order to hear the teachings of the Dharma directly, or reborn as a Lord, an Elder, or a member of a wealthy family, if in the human realm. |
