Bodhisattva Guanyin (Kuan-yin)
11th/12th century
Wood with paint
95 inches high (241.3 cm)
Chinese
Northern Song (960-1127 A. D.) or Liao (907-1125 A. D.) Dynasty
Nelson-Atkins Museum
Kansas City

The Bodhisattva Guanyin, the Chinese Buddhist deity of compassion and mercy, here is seated in the posture of royal ease on a simulated outcropping of craggy, perforated rock. The position of the Guanyin, one leg in pendant, conveys the impression that the Bodhisavatta might at any moment rise from a state of deep contemplation and step down from the carved lotus rest. The Bodhisavatta's worldly ornaments,such as the high tiara and rich necklaces in sumptuous detail, contrast with the more plain image of the Buddha, whose markings indicate his ethereal status. The soft skin and contour, charm of bearing and beguiling smile create an aura of femininity.