Bodhisattva, unknown maker from China

Exhibition Label:
“The Sacred and the Secular: Buddhist Imagery in Religious and Popular Contexts,” Oct-2005, Hillary Pedersen
Bodhisattvas are deities who have postponed their own enlightenment in order to assist those on earth on their quest to enlightenment. Although technically gender-neutral, during certain periods of Chinese history there was an emphasis on the feminine qualities of bodhisattvas. Although bodhisattvas typically wear ornate costumes and lavish jewelry and have long hair, the delicate facial features, modestly covered body, and multilayered costume with streaming garlands seen here all indicate a feminine form. The lotus crown worn by the deity is also typical of an imperial women’s costume. The gentle sway of body as the figure steps forward toward the viewer gives the sculpture a life-like quality.