Shuanglin Temple Sakyamuni Hall: Avalokitesvara on a Lotus Petal

CHINA, Shanxi, Jinzhong; Ming dynasty

This is one of the Thirty-Three Manifestations of Avalokitesvara, depicted here as sitting on a lotus petal in the posture of royal ease. The figure is found on the back of the screen wall inside the Sakyamuni Hall. The figure sits sideways and turns to look directly outwards. A headdress is worn on hair arranged in curls and pieces of jewelry adorn the chest and arms. A long stole billows behind as the Bodhisattva rides across a painted background of waves. Avalokitesvara is surrounded by a number of Arhats, balanced on the backs of animals, sea beasts, lotuses or sutra scrolls, while heavenly beings and protectors sail above them on clouds.