Description
The South Sea Guanyin was originally seated on a rocky throne to represent the shore of his home in the mythical island of Potala. His right leg is raised, the arm resting on the folded knee in a relaxed position. With an expression of grace, calmness, and compassion, the Guanyin is especially appealing as the "guide of souls" who offers hope for salvation.
Provenance
Yamanaka & Co., Inc., New York, NY, consigned to Sotheby Parke Bernet Galleries, New York, for auction (? by 1943–May 1944); (Sotheby Parke Bernet Galleries, New York. "Oriental Art: the Entire Stock of the New York Store with Additions from the Chicago Store of Yamanaka & Co., Inc.," Part I. May 24–27, 1944 sale. Lot 782) (May 24–27, 1944); Collection of Baron Jean Germain Léon Cassel van Doorn [1882–1952] (after 1944–by 1958); Florence J. Gould [1895–1983], Juan-les Pins, France (after 1952–1984); (Sotheby Parke Bernet, Monaco. "Porcelaines de Chine et Objets d'art Chinois: Succession de Florence J. Gould." June 27, 1984 sale. Lot 104. Sold to J. E. Eskenazi ,Ltd.) (June 27, 1984); (J. E. Eskenazi, Ltd., sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art) (June 27-September 24, 1984); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (September 24, 1984–)
Accession Number
1984.70
Medium
wood with polychromy and gilding
Dimensions
Overall: 138 cm (54 5/16 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
