May 12, 2017
May 12, 2017
May 12, 2017
May 15, 2017
May 15, 2017
May 15, 2017

Eleven-Headed Guanyin

Eleven-Headed Guanyin

十一面觀音菩薩

late 600s

Wood

Height: 62.9 cm (24 3/4 in.)

John L. Severance Fund 1970.66

Location

Description

Guanyin, the bodhisattva of infinite compassion, can be identified by his attributes, carrying a tiny Amida Buddha in his crown, and holding a bottle with the nectar of life in his left hand. The eleven-headed Guanyin, in particular, has his eyes and ears open in all directions to hear, see, and help all those who are in distress. The garment and jewelry of this graceful figure remind us that the historic Buddha Shakyamuni was originally an Indian prince before he reached enlightenment. Upon his death, he entered nirvana, an eternal state free of desire and suffering, outside the realm of birth, death, and rebirth.

The dating and attribution of the figure as being from China needs further study.

Video

On My Mind: Eleven-Headed Guanyin
See also
Department: 
Chinese Art
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Wood

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