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Chinese Ming Dynasty Bronze Nanhai Guanyin, 16th/17th Century, China

$9,800
£7,441.37
€8,509.76
CA$13,692.02
A$15,228.52
CHF 7,951.86
MX$185,314.84
NOK 101,557.36
SEK 95,242.89
DKK 63,511.64
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About the Item

A decidingly charming Chinese polychromed and gilt cast bronze figure of Nanhai Guanyin, Guanyin of the South Sea, Ming Dynasty, 16th/17th century, China. Guanyin, the bodhisattva of compassion, is portrayed here as a beatific figure seated upon a raised lotus pedestal over waves. Guanyin is dressed in heavy robes, and wears an elaborate headdress. The small figure of Amitabha Buddha in the headdress positively identifies this figure as Guanyin. Guanyin rests one hand in his lap, holding a cup of pure water said to be able to alleviate all suffering. His other hand is raised, holding a willow branch which is used to sprinkle the healing waters. The two lotus blossoms to either side of Guanyin would originally have supported figures of the acolytes Longnu and Shancai, now missing. A whimsical parrot perches upon the front of the lotus pedestal. The figure was originally fully gilt, with much of the gilding remaining. The stylized waves under the lotus pedestal polychromed green. Nanhai Guanyin, or Guanyin of the Southern Seas, is a manifestation of Guanyin indigenous to China, with a special focus on protection children and fishermen.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.25 in (33.66 cm)Width: 8.25 in (20.96 cm)Depth: 5 in (12.7 cm)
  • Style:
    Ming (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Cast,Gilt,Polychromed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1600-1609
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1600
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Evidence of glue repair to the lotus base and stem. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading. With losses to the bronze, especially to the back of the figure. Wear to the polychrome and gilding. The lotus base slightly lopsided. Missing the pair of acolytes. Figure does not quite sit flush on base.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894730455452

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