EN
♡
Eleven-Headed Guanyin — China, Tang dynasty (618–907)

Click image to view full screen

Written by: Hande GüneşResearcher · Old Master Paintings
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 5779
China, Tang dynasty (618–907)

Eleven-Headed Guanyin

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
Own a comparable work? Consign with us

✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing

Guanyin, the bodhisattva of infinite compassion, can be identified by his attributes, carrying a tiny Amida Buddha in his crown, and holding a bottle with the nectar of life in his left hand. The eleven-headed Guanyin, in particular, has his eyes and ears open in all directions to hear, see, and help all those who are in distress. The garment and jewelry of this graceful figure remind us that the historic Buddha Shakyamuni was originally an Indian prince before he reached enlightenment. Upon his death, he entered nirvana, an eternal state free of desire and suffering, outside the realm of birth, death, and rebirth. <br><br>The dating and attribution of the figure as being from China needs further study.

Artist / MakerChina, Tang dynasty (618–907)
Datelate 600s
Culture / OriginChina, Tang dynasty (618–907)
Mediumwood
Dimensionsheight: 62.9 cm (24 3/4 in.)
DepartmentChinese Art
TypeSculpture
About the Artist

Full biography →

Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

Condition

A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.

Shipping & Collection

Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.

Buying at Matchless Pieces

Register, verify your identity, and bid online or in a private room. Buyer’s premium and taxes are shown before you confirm.

The Matchless Letter

Sale previews, new discoveries in illumination and miniature, and private-room invitations.