Cleveland Museum of Art

Seated Guanyin

Date

late 1100s–1200s

Medium

wood with polychromy and gilding

Culture

China, late Northern Song dynasty (960-1127) - Jin dynasty (1115-1234)

Department

Chinese Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

The South Sea Guanyin was originally seated on a rocky throne to represent the shore of his home in the mythical island of Potala. His right leg is raised, the arm resting on the folded knee in a relaxed position. With an expression of grace, calmness, and compassion, the Guanyin is especially appealing as the "guide of souls" who offers hope for salvation. After acquisition, the CMA conservator meticulously used surgical knives and etching tools to uncover the sculpture's original polychromy and gilding, hidden beneath layers of protective varnish and paint.

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