The bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin)

The bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin)

1100–1200
China; Song dynasty (960–1279)
Wood (paulownia) with pigments
The Avery Brundage Collection, B60S24+

A Bodhisattva of Compassion

Nearly 1,000 years old, this statue is a remarkable example of Buddhist sculpture from the Song dynasty, when wood replaced stone as the most commonly used medium. The Water-Moon Avalokiteshvara is a bodhisattva of compassion. His Chinese name, Shuiyue Guanyin, refers to his pose, seated in contemplation of the moon’s reflection on the water (shuiyue), and his nature, attuned to the sounds of the world (guanyin). His benevolence and often gentle appearance make Guanyin one of the most popular deities in China.

Image of wooden statue depicting Guanyin.

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View multiple profiles and close-ups of Guanyin.

Guanyin is seated in the pose of “royal ease,” with right hand resting on bent knee.

A storage space at the back of this statue (called zhuangzang) was added to store consecration materials.

The holes under the base may have been cut to reduce the likelihood that the wood would crack or to lower the sculpture’s total weight.

The sensitive carving is enhanced by a layer of gesso and paint, which makes the surfaces look more lifelike.

Rear view of a wooden statue of Guanyin, showing a hollow space in the back.

View of a wooden statue of Guanyin from below, showing two holes in the base.

Close up of the face of a wooden statue of Guanyin.