
May one see it?
London, United Kingdom
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
This graceful figure has been finely carved from rhinoceros horn and represents the 'compassionate' Bodhisattva Guanyin, also known as Avalokiteshvara. According to Buddhist teachings, a bodhisattva is a deity on the path to reaching Enlightenment. By this period (late Ming) Guanyin took on the aspect of an elegant lady in flowing robes. Here she is pouring from a bottle the sweet waters of salvation. Sea creatures swarm in the waves foaming over her bare feet.
Victoria and Albert Museum