figure BM-1991-0719.1

Period:Yuan dynasty Production date:1339 (Dated.)
Materials:bronze
Technique:cast
Subjects:bodhisattva
Dimensions:Height: 36 centimetres

Description:
Bronze seated figure of the Bodhisattva Guanyin, with both hands clasped around the left knee. Inscribed. Made of cast bronze.
IMG


Comments:Rawson 1992:The Mongol dynasty, the Yuan (1279-1368), patronised foreigners in the search for orthodox teachings in all aspects of government. Religion, particularly Buddhism, was an aspect of good government. The Mongols are said to have employed sculptors from Nepal, who introduced Nepalese and Tibetan forms of architecture and sculpture. The heavy sculptures of the Song dynasty were supplemented by a new and more elegant figure style, as can be seen in this bronze seateed Bodhisattva. The deeply curved body and lightly flowing drapery provide a sense of movement missing from earlier sculptures. Indeed, the contrast is evident in the difference in form and atmosphere in BM 1985.0726.1.