East Asia, China, Northern Qi to Tang Dynasty, ca. 570 to 906 CE. A magnificent marble figure of the bodhisattva Guanyin standing in the rigid frontal pose that is typical of Northern Qi and Sui dynasties and lavishly adorned in lengthy chains of clustered beads and pleated floor-length robes that drape his slender figure. The flowing beads fall from his neck with 2 additional chains extending from each side, all meeting at a central medallion bearing a lotus flower at his waist. His flat chest is embellished by strings of pearls, while long sashes cloak his arms. He holds up his right hand as though gesturing to the viewer as his left arm rests at his side, gently grasping one chain of cabochon beads. Guanyin, known outside China as Avalokiteshvara, "The Lord Who Gazes Down at The World," is often portrayed as both male or female. The soft features and androgynous body combined with the glowing white marble of this example gives a stunning impression of ethereal beauty. Size: 20.8" W x 57.7" H (52.8 cm x 146.6 cm)

In Buddhist belief, Bodhisattvas are among the most compassionate beings in the universe, devoting themselves to saving the suffering and helping others achieve enlightenment and Buddhahood. In Chinese art from this time period and earlier, they are depicted as less austere than Buddhas, with graceful postures and elegant garments, a nod to the riches of the Northwestern Chinese Silk Road. This piece is no exception.

C.f. the Metropolitan Museum of Art (56.209), Museum of Fine Arts Boston (50.2264), Minneapolis Institute of Art (42.4.2), and Penn Museum (C443).

A similar Northern Qi Dynasty marble sculpture of more petite scale was sold by Christie's New York for $62,500 as lot 1509 on September 19th, 2013 (Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, Live Auction 2726).

This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.

Provenance: private Vero Beach, Florida, USA collection

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#177449

Missing head, fingers of right hand, and toes. Chipping to peripheries, bracelets, and base with expected nicks and abrasions to areas of surface, all commensurate with age. A few stable hairline fissures to verso. Otherwise, good condition with nice remaining sculpted detail.