We are retired couple now in our early 80s who have been collecting antiques, Folk Art, Devotional Art, Asian Art, and ethnographic art objects, etc.
for over 60 years.
We recently sold our large retirement home and have moved into much smaller accommodations.
Not surprisingly, we need to do some serious downsizing.
Too much stuff! Now it’s time for us to help some of our objects find a new Happy Home.
This listing is for an elaborately carved and painted 19th century Guanyin from Burma.
Several different materials and artistic techniques were used in the creation of this Guanyin.
Both artistic vision and technical skill were required.
After the carving of the wood was completed, parts of the sculpture were covered with a woven fabric which in turn was covered with gesso.
Then the paint is applied.
This technique creates surfaces and an overall image that is more lifelike.
This is a large sculpture.
Height is 30 inches, width is 24 inches, and depth is 22 inches.
A very hard wood was used.
Another indication of the artist’s skill.
The Guanyin weighs almost 70 lbs.
Guanyin is a bodhisattva in Buddhism who is known as "the one who hears the cries of the world".
A bodhisattva is a figure who has achieved the highest aim in Buddhism, enlightenment, and may pass into nirvana, the state of freedom from suffering and the endless cycle of rebirth.
However, bodhisattvas elect instead to remain in this world, easing the suffering of all beings and helping others attain enlightenment.
There are many different Bodhisattvas, but the most famous is Guanyin.
Guanyin is a Buddhist deity and the goddess of mercy and compassion.
She is an all-seeing, all-hearing being who is called upon by worshipers in times of uncertainty, despair, and fear.
Her five major virtues are mercy, modesty, courage, justice, and wisdom.
Guanyin is one of Buddhism's most beloved bodhisattvas.
She is also revered by people of other faiths, including Daoists and Confucianists.
This sculpture presents Guanyin dressed in the rich clothing of an Indian prince, including flowing pants tied with a knotted sash and a gilt-trimmed scarf wound around the body.
The figure is further decorated with an ornate gold necklace, bracelets, armbands, and a multi-colored crown depicting the Buddha Amitābha.
Guanyin strikes a relaxed sitting position known as the pose of “Royal Ease” The hand gestures have meaning, but I have not yet been able learn what they are.
The Holiday Season is here.
This object would make an unusual gift for a special person, or it could be an end of the year
treat for yourself.
Thank you for viewing.
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