Water-Moon Avalokitesvara

JAPAN; Muromachi period

This painting of Water-Moon Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, an imitation of an older artwork, is thought to date from the late 14th or early 15th century during the Muromachi period. Avalokitesvara sits peacefully on a rocky outcrop above the sea. The fair-skinned Bodhisattva wears a robe decorated with scrolling patterns and a headdress topped with a Buddha image. The hands rest in the lap, and the legs are hidden beneath the long robe. A large nimbus resembling the moon is painted behind the body. On the left, a vase holding a willow branch is placed on the rocks. Waves lap against the shore below the rocks. Faint mountains and trees are visible in the distance on the upper left, suggesting that the setting is Mount Potalaka, the abode of Avalokitesvara.
The painting is a seamless blend of ink brushwork and color. Delicate lines and fine details convey the grace and elegance of the Bodhisattva. The rocks are depicted with thick, dark lines that suggest a rough texture.