Guanyin

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.