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China, late Northern Song dynasty (960-1127) - Jin dynasty (1115-1234) / late 1100s–1200s

Seated Guanyin

The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Seated Guanyin as sculpture (China, late Northern Song dynasty (960-1127) - Jin dynasty (1115-1234) · late 1100s–1200s).

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

After acquisition, the CMA conservator meticulously used surgical knives and etching tools to uncover the sculpture's original polychromy and gilding, hidden beneath layers of protective varnish and paint.

SERENDIPITYA little unexpected

FamiliarWeird

A CLOSER LOOK

The museum identifies this sculpture as wood with polychromy and gilding.

The museum's collection notes: 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.

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

The Cleveland Museum of ArtSeated Guanyin

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