Accession Number1964/2.20
TitleBodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Chinese, Guanyin) with a willow branch and vase
Artist(s)ChineseArtist NationalityChinese (culture or style)Object Creation Date618-907Medium & SupportMolded terracotta votive plaqueDimensions 2 3/4 in. x 1 3/4 in. ( 7 cm x 4.4 cm )
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Caroline I. Plumer for the James Marshall Plumer CollectionLabel copyBodhisattvas, or spiritually advanced beings destined to become Buddhas, play a central role in Mahâyâna Buddhism, as embodiments of certain aspects of the teachings and as divinities to whom one could pray. Throughout Asia, the most popular bodhisattva was Avalokitesvara, “the lord who looks down and listens with compassion.” He can be recognized by the large lotus blossom he holds in his left hand.
Maribeth Graybill, Senior Curator of Asian Art
Exhibited in "Flora and Fauna in Chinese Art," April 6, 2002 - December 1, 2002.
Primary Object Classification Sculpture Primary Object TypereliefAdditional Object Classification(s)Ritual ObjectCollection AreaAsianRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
Buddhism
bodhisattva
lotus (motif)
willow (wood)