Golden Willow Guanyin Statue in Gilded Brass

Description

Broad lotus petals form a bright ring beneath the folded legs. Red and green accents follow the robe borders and the tiers of the round base, adding small points of color to the reflective gold. With the face looking gently downward, this golden Willow Guanyin brings an intimate expression to an elaborate altar figure.

The brass sculpture is made by lost-wax casting in Tongling, Anhui, then finished with hand-applied gold leaf. Painted brows, dark hair and red lips define the face against the gilded hood. Around the back, long folds carry the light down to the lotus seat; the side view reveals the lifted fingers and the space around the willow branch.

The Willow, the Vase and Compassion

Willow Guanyin takes her name from the branch held in her raised hand. In Chinese, this form is called Yangliu Guanyin (杨柳观音); Yangliu Kuan Yin is an alternative English spelling. Guanyin is the bodhisattva of compassion, and the willow and vase are associated with the sprinkling of purifying water. Here, the fine leaves curve beside the cheek while the narrow vessel rests upright on the open palm.

The reflective gold leaf and painted face benefit from soft, indirect light. Give the crown, fine willow leaves and ornate lotus throne room to be seen together; strong glare can obscure the small red and green accents on this Yangliu Quan Yin.

A Place for the Lotus Throne

This gold leaf Guanyin statue measures approximately 39 cm (15.4 in) high, including the base. The circular base is approximately 25.5 cm (10.0 in) in diameter, and the statue weighs around 7 kg (15.4 lb). Choose a firm, level surface with space around the projecting branch.

The piece includes one gilded brass Guanyin with the lotus base shown. Keep it indoors and dry. Support the base when lifting, and dust gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing the gold leaf, abrasive metal polish, solvents and acidic cleaners.