Large Chinese Marble Bust of Guanyin Buddhist Bodhisattva

Guanyin (Guan Yin, Kuan Yin), the deity of mercy and compassion. Families often pray to Guanyin for overall good fortune, strength through suffering, and compassion. Originally a male deity in India, Guanyin transitioned over a millennium to become a female deity in China. Guanyin is at once male and female.

This carving is most likely executed for the tourist trade, but appears to have been expertly rendered from an older piece. As when viewed in a temple, this piece is best displayed for a direct view of the face. At the top of a set of stairs or in a bookcase would be prime locations.

The face of Guanyin paints a picture of understanding and compassion. The oval face, the cupid bow lips, the closed lids, and the upswept hair all convey a sense of serenity. The elongated earlobes are a traditional aspect of the Guanyin. The slight head tilt, while not part of the standard depiction, adds to the vulnerability of the piece.

This piece weights 38.6lbs. No discernable artist mark.