A large bronze sculpture of guanyin, Ming dynasty (1368-1644). 5/6

Cast seated in dhyanasana on a double lotus base, the figure is dressed in loose, flowing robes and elaborate beaded jewelry. The hands are held in vitarka mudra, each holding a leafy stem rising to the shoulders and surmounted by a bird on one side and a vase on the other. The face has a serene expression, and the hair is fashioned into a chignon centered by a crown where the figure of Amitabha Buddha to the center is missing. There are traces of gilding and red lacquer. Height 34.5 cm. Repair to crown.