Guanyin seated. China, Qing Dynasty, probably 18th-19th century.

Guanyin seated. China, Qing Dynasty, probably 18th-19th centuries.
Bronze.
Measurements: 25 x 14 x 13 cm.

This finely cast bronze figure depicts Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, seated in meditative posture. The figure wears long flowing robes with softly incised folds, a ribbon tied to the chest and a high hood or veil covering the elaborate hairstyle, a typical feature of Chinese depictions of Guanyin. The serene expression of the face, the almond-shaped eyes and the gentle smile accentuate the compassionate nature of the bodhisattva. The back is smooth and the base is open, as is common in devotional bronzes of the Qing period.