Chinese, Qing to Republic, early 20th century
h.40 in.(102cm) X w.14 in.(36cm) X d.8 in.(20cm)
Condition: minor imperfection, o.a. very good
Private Collection
A sumptuous carving in dark fruitwood, well conceived with billowing drapery and
crisply rendered details combining to create an image of magnificent equipoise
and serene contemplation in the midst of swirling energy. Quan Yin, holding the
auspicious Joo-i, appears before a moon disc aureole edged with clouds atop which
a phoenix hovers holding a holy rosary in its beak. The goddess stands upon a
broad lotus leaf, with lotus buds, blossoms, seeds and a censer; its smoke mingling
with the clouds. All is supported on a lotus leaf which rests on the back of a
four-toed water dragon rising amongst the waves.