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Chinese Carved Boxwood Figure of Guanyin, Mid-Qing Dynasty

About the Item

A sublime Chinese carved boxwood figure of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara, called Guanyin in Chinese, mid-Qing dynasty. The androgynous figure wears layers of loose robes, tied and gathered above the waist, draping gracefully around him. He holds the hem of his outer robes in one hand, the other hand (which is carved separately and removable) raised in karana mudra, the gesture of dispelling evil and fear. The hem of the inner robe carved and beaded with a geometric design. He wears a finely carved choker around his neck. His hair also finely carved and coiffed into a large and elaborate bun. The boxwood finely grained, with a gorgeous patina. Although known today primarily as a female figure, earlier depictions of Guanyin were of a male with feminine features, as this one is. Over time, the feminine features became more pronounced, eventually transforming him fully into a female.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13 in (33.02 cm)Width: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
  • Style:
    Qing (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Late 18th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor structural damages. The figure with some infilled cracks running the length of the body. Please see photos. The raised hand carved separately and detachable.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU89477831453
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