This large painting was probably made for a Buddhist temple during the Ming Dynasty. The five small Buddha images in his headpiece symbolize various types of spiritual wisdom, and the two foreground figures are guardians of the faith. Celestial beings flank the canopy and rainbow halo.

Doubtful signature of Zhang Nanben (9th c.)

- Professor Kathleen Ryor, Carleton College



Probably made for display in a Buddhist temple, this image of the Bodhisattva of Compassion Guanyin seated on a lotus pedestal is rendered in great detail with precious pigments. The five small Buddhas in the headpiece symbolize various types of spiritual wisdom, and the two foreground figures are guardians of Buddhist teachings. Celestial beings flank the canopy and rainbow halo.

- Dr. Bruce A. Coats, 2022

No signature or seals.

On the outside of the scroll, in pencil: Tang. Chang Nan Pen. Kwanyin. Traded 2/73 R Petterson MM Pettus.

Multicolored paint on silk, with tan and dark blue silk brocade mounting, and beige silk between the painting and mount.

This large Buddhist painting on silk is an important Ming Dynasty image of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The scale and richness of mineral pigments indicates that this work was made for display in a major temple, probably donated by a wealthy patron. With its celestial figures, guardian warriors, and elaborate lotus petal throne, this painting represents a grand style of Buddhist painting that was influential throughout East Asia.

This object has the following keywords:

• Buddhism
• Screens and Scrolls

This object is a member of the following portfolios: