Lotus Leaf Guanyin Statue with Joined Palms

Description

The leaf gives this Lotus Leaf Guanyin statue its distinctive outline. Its edges curl around the seated figure, while carved veins spread behind the crown and shoulders. Guanyin sits cross-legged at the center, hands joined at the chest above flowing folds of robe. Below, an openwork pedestal continues the movement in rounded, scrolling forms.

Joined palms, an expression of reverence

Lotus Leaf Guanyin with Joined Palms combines two defining features: the leaf curving around the seated figure and the hands brought together at the chest. In Chinese, Lianye Hezhang Guanyin (莲叶合掌观音) names that pairing. The joined-palms gesture, also called anjali mudra, expresses respect and reverence; here it forms the still center of the flowing leaf and robes.

Lotus imagery carries an association of purity in Buddhist art. The expansive leaf surrounds this Huali wood Kuan Yin rather than simply forming a seat beneath it. At the center, the joined hands bring the movement of the leaf and robes back to a small, deliberate gesture.

Wood grain on both sides

This Huali wood Guanyin is hand carved, with an amber-brown color and a glossy surface that catches the light along the leaf, fingers and robe folds. The back is also finished: branching leaf veins and visible wood grain make it worth viewing from the side and rear, as well as straight on. Grain and tone vary naturally between carvings.

The overall height is approximately 46 cm (18.1 in), with a width of 24 cm (9.4 in) and a depth of 13 cm (5.1 in). Allow room above and around the curled leaf edges when choosing a shelf or altar. One carving with its integrated pedestal is included, supplied in a gift box. The table shown in the photographs is a display prop.

Keep the carving indoors, away from direct sunlight, heaters and damp conditions. Dust gently with a soft, dry brush or cloth. Support the body and base when moving it, rather than lifting by the leaf edges or other projecting details.