Longquan: Shrine with Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva

CHINA, Zhejiang, Lishui; Yuan dynasty

This shrine was made in Longquan. Avalokitesvara is depicted sitting with legs crossed in a small green cave. The Bodhisattva wears an inner robe and an outer robe which covers the head and flows down over the seat. The headdress is tall and elaborate, and the chest is adorned with necklaces. The openwork around the top of the cave appears to be a representation of clouds. On the right is Avalokitesvara’s vase on a ledge and on the left, there appears to be a small, simplified human figure with lowered head and joined palms. There are two attendants in front of the Bodhisattva: one wears a wide-sleeved robe and is holding an offering, while the other kneels with joined palms.