Lu Family Tomb: Figurine of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva

CHINA, Shanghai; Ming dynasty

This white jade figurine of Avalokitesvara was excavated from the Lu family tomb in Shanghai in 1969. Avalokitesvara is wearing a headdress and the face is smooth and round. The eyes, ears, nose, and mouth are carved with slightly deeper lines. The figure is wearing a robe with wide sleeves, and the right hand is placed in front of the chest holding a whisk. A golden belt is tied around the waist and inlaid with a ruby. The figure is standing on a pedestal, which has golden lotus petals around its edge. Both sides of the pedestal are decorated with golden lotus flowers and below there is a lotus flower spreading its leaves. The nimbus of Avalokitesvara, the necklace, and the stole are made of gold wire, which stands in beautiful contrast to the white jade.