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Water-Moon Avalokitesvara
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Water-Moon Avalokitesvara
CHINA; Song dynasty (960–1279); Wood; H: 141 cm; Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
The Water-Moon Avalokitesvara was a popular figure in the north and central plains of China during the Song dynasty (960–1279). The figure is a classic example of this particular style. The paint is somewhat faded while the gilding is still visible. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress dominated by a Buddha figure. A shallow urna is carved between the eyebrows and colored in vermilion. The face is slightly inclined and the Bodhisattva is shown in contemplation with compassionate eyes serenely lowered. A stole covers the shoulders and several jeweled accessories hang over the chest. The figure sits in a variation of the relaxation posture while the right hand hangs over the knee to gather a fold of the long skirt. |
