Dragon-Riding Guanyin Statue in Copper

Description

Leave a little room beside this sculpture. The dragon’s tail loops behind Guanyin, and a turn to either side reveals the open space between them. Her slender standing figure and the densely worked dragon form a tall, narrow composition; the view from behind reveals the hood and broad sweep of the robes.

Guanyin Above the Dragon

Dragon-Riding Guanyin describes the figure standing on the dragon beneath her feet. This design is named Xianglong Guanyin (祥龙观音), or “Auspicious Dragon Guanyin.” Xianglong refers to the auspicious dragon; it is the name of this design, rather than a separate deity.

Guanyin is the bodhisattva of compassion, known in Sanskrit as Avalokiteshvara. The dragon’s association with water is echoed here by the vase and curling waves. On this copper Kuan Yin, the tail looping behind the robe gives the theme depth as well as movement.

Warm Copper, Seen from Every Side

Made in Tongling, Anhui, this copper Kuan Yin has a reddish-brown finish. Brighter highlights trace the cheeks, sleeves and dragon’s scales, while darker recesses give the robes and base depth. The close-up photographs show the headdress, the fingers around the vase and the texture of the dragon, so you can examine the details before choosing a place for it.

The overall dimensions are approximately 38 cm high × 15 cm wide × 15 cm deep (15.0 × 5.9 × 5.9 in), with a net weight of about 4.5 kg (9.92 lb). Allow a little space behind and beside the figure to appreciate the tail and flowing robe. A sturdy, level surface is important even with its relatively compact footprint.

You receive one copper Guanyin statue with the dragon-and-wave base shown. Keep it indoors and dust it with a soft, dry cloth. Support the base when moving it; avoid lifting by the branch, vase, crown or dragon’s tail. Do not use abrasive polish or acidic cleaners on the colored surface.