Carved Ivory Figure of Chinese Goddess Quan Yin in Hat Holding Basket on Base

Sculpture

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L.T. Jordan Institute for International Awareness

Carved ivory figurine of Quan Yin.: Image of the carved ivory figurine of a Chinese goddess. It is sitting on a dark ebony wood base. The figure is carrying a basket and fan and is wearing a flat, round hat.
Carved ivory figurine of Quan Yin.

Image of the carved ivory figurine of a Chinese goddess. It is sitting on a dark ebony wood base. The figure is carrying a basket and fan and is wearing a flat, round hat.

Name/Title

Carved Ivory Figure of Chinese Goddess Quan Yin in Hat Holding Basket on Base

Entry/Object ID

JI2025000420

Description

Carved ivory figure of Chinese goddess of mercy and compassion, Quan Yin (also spelled Guanyin and Kwan Yin) sitting on an ebony wood vase. Up until the 12th century, Quan Yin was an Indian bodhisattva. Over the centuries she has evolved to the female presence she is today. While there are many ways she is often depicted, one common one is her standing carrying a willow branch. However, in this piece, she can also be seen carrying a basket and fan.

Context

The ivory statue was gifted to the Jordans by an Indian member of the Kuwait Oil Company after they returned to Kuwait from a trip home to India.

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Country

India