Chongsheng Temple Qianxun Pagoda: Statuette of Water-Moon Avalokitesvara

CHINA, Yunnan, Dali; Dali Kingdom

This statuette from the Dali Kingdom was recovered from Qianxun Pagoda at Chongsheng Temple in 1978. The three sections include a white jade Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, a silver mandorla, and a jade base. The mandorla has openwork of honeysuckle patterns and flames with a nimbus behind the head of Avalokitesvara.
Avalokitesvara has hair tied in a topknot, a square head, narrow eyes, a wide nose, and thin lips. The figure’s body is elongated, with narrow shoulders and a slender waist. The figure wears a long lower garment and the chest is decorated with elegant ornaments. A stole is draped over the shoulder and hangs down on either side of the body. The left hand is on the throne, while the right arm rests on the right knee holding the falling stole. Avalokitesvara sits in royal ease posture on a three-point throne. The base is also made of white jade and resembles rocks, which symbolize the natural environment around Avalokitesvara.
The statuette is one of the best-preserved early jade representations of Avalokitesvara. It has been carefully designed and carved in a simple and natural style.