South Sea Guanyin Statue on a Dark Lotus Throne

Description

The deep brown lotus throne sets off the bright face and robes of this South Sea Guanyin statue. Gold-colored lines follow the curling edges of the garment, while darker recesses give the overlapping folds depth. The wide seated silhouette draws the eye upward, from the layered petals to the lowered gaze and small figure in the crown.

Guanyin of the South Sea

The South Sea name connects Guanyin with her island abode, Mount Potalaka, associated in Chinese Buddhism with Mount Putuo off the coast of Zhejiang. Nanhai Guanyin (南海观音) is the Chinese name for Guanyin of the South Sea. It places this figure within a tradition of devotion to the bodhisattva of compassion.

The willow and vase belong to Guanyin’s traditional imagery of compassion. On this South Sea Kuan Yin, bright hands and broad golden folds stand above a dark lotus throne. The contrast makes the seated figure distinct from the pedestal rather than merging them into one metal tone.

Warm Metal, Dark Petals

Made of brass in Tongling, Anhui, this statue has a colored surface that combines warm gold tones with dark brown. The contrast is strongest at the base: the outer petals remain dark beneath the ornamented robes. Viewed from the side, the vase and raised hand stand away from the body; the rear shows the long sweep of the hood and garment.

The finish is offered in one combination, Gold & Dark Brown. Close photographs show the face and scrolling robe decoration, and a scale photograph helps relate the figure to a person and tabletop.

Choosing Its Place

The overall dimensions are approximately 42 cm (16.5 in) high × 28 cm (11.0 in) long × 26 cm (10.2 in) wide. At about 6 kg (13.23 lb), this brass Kuan Yin needs a sturdy, level display surface with room around the lotus and raised hand. It suits a dedicated altar table or a substantial indoor cabinet top.

One statue with its pictured lotus pedestal is included; surrounding furnishings are display props. Lift from beneath the base without putting pressure on the willow or hands. Dust with a soft, dry cloth, keeping abrasive polish and acidic cleaners away from the colored surface.