Cundi

CHINA; Song dynasty

Cundi, sitting in full lotus position on a lotus throne that rises from the water, has three eyes, red lips, and light-blue hair that falls past the shoulders. The Bodhisattva wears a five-leaf crown, ornaments, armlets, and bracelets. The 18 hands each holds a Dharma instrument or forms a mudra. Cundi is surrounded by a large mandorla decorated with flame motifs. At the bottom of the picture, two Dharma protectors touch the stem of the lotus throne. In the upper corners, two heavenly beings stand on clouds and hold up offerings. There is a lotus in the lower left corner. A monk in the lower right corner holds up an incense burner. The fine, golden lines are precisely drawn, and stand out vividly against the dark blue of the background, resulting in an exquisite image.