Collection of the University of Pittsburgh Art Gallery, Pittsburgh, PA. Anonymous Gift

1991.1.16

Standing Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy)

Unknown, Chinese

1775 – 1825 (Date created)

MediumSteatite, Stone, Porcelain

Technique Carving

TypeSculptures

Dimensions 5.5 in W x 15.25 in H x 2 in D (Object)

CultureChinese

DescriptionCh'ing dynasty (1644-1911). The rendition of Kuan Yin in steatite places her in a serene standing pose, with her feet resting in clouds.

Exhibition LabelAmong the products of the Ch'ing dynasty kilns were sculpted and glazed figures for tombs and altar tables. The Kuan Yin is an example of this fine craftsmanship. Kuan Yin's Sanskrit name is Padma-pani or "Born of the Lotus," and her Chinese title signifies "she who always observes or pays attention to the Virgin Mary." Kuan Yin is also worshipped by the Taoists. They imitate the Buddhists in their descriptions of this deity, of her previous metamorphosis, her disposition to save the lost, her purity, wisdom and marvel-working power. There are temples all over China dedicated to this goddess, and she is worshipped in practically every family. The island of Pootoom in the Chusan Archipelago, is sacred to the Buddhists. The worship of Kuan Yin is its most prominent feature on account of the fact that the goddess is said to have resided there for nine years. There are nearly one hundred monasteries and temples on the island with over a hundred thousand monks. There are said to be thousands of different incarnations or manifestations of his divinity, who is generally dressed in beautiful white flowing robes with a white hood gracefully draped over the top of the head. The lamaistic form of Kuan Yin is often entirely naked, with or without a child in her arms. She is occassionally depicted as a woman with small feet, sometimes as a man, and frequently as riding a mythological animal known as the Hou, which resembles a Buddhist lion, and symbolizes the divine supremacy exercised by Kuan Yin over the forces of nature.

StatusIn Collection

ProvenanceAnonymous Gift (see Notes)

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