A LARGE SINO-TIBETAN GILT-COPPER REPOUSSE HALF FIGURE OF AVALOKITESHVARA

18TH CENTURY

Formed as the lower body of the bodhisattva, depicted wearing a dhoti tied at the waist with a bow, the fabric decorated with a band of lotus scrolls to the upper section and with butterflies and bats bordering the hem, with strings of beads hanging from his waist and adorning his feet, together with a modern stand, 61cm, 15kg approx. (2)

Provenance: formerly the collection of Ross Levett, Maine, and E Van Vredenburgh, Brussels.

Avalokiteshvara is the Bodhisattva of Compassion and a spiritual emanation of Amitabha Buddha. There are numerous variations in the visual depiction of Avalokiteshvara in different cultures and he is often represented in China as Guanyin, also known as the Goddess of Mercy. According to Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, which is believed to be the earliest text presenting the doctrines of Avalokiteshvara, he hears the cries of sentient beings and works relentlessly to help those who call upon him. Thirty-three manifestations of Avalokiteshvara are mentioned, including both male and female forms.