This
is a most interesting figure, a 20th century Chinese bronze that is a fusion between
the goddess Samantabhadri and Kuan Yin and is known specifically in China as Pu
Hiun, the patron goddess of Mount Emei in western China. Mount Emei is one of
four sacred mountains that is the site of reknown monasteries and the destination
of pilgrimages.
This
highly polished bronze is majestically rendered. The deity conveys stillness,
peace and sits firmly on the elephant, the protector of the root. Samantabhadri’s
gaze is deeply contemplative and the third eye is powerfully pronounced. Her hair,
highly detailed and delicately wrought is replete with ornaments including a pronounced
diadem of Amithaba which incidentally is a distinct feature of Kuan Yin. Samantabhadri
holds a sumptuous lotus and her hand is poised in the teaching mudra. Shining
with a honey patina this impressive statue evokes an integral intersection of
Tibetan and Chinese Buddhist culture. (SD)
