The Buddhist ideal of Bodhisattva- enlightened beings who took up the divine task of helping mortals achieve nirvana, before their final passage from the world, is one idea that finds mention in different regional variants of Buddhism. Bodhisattva Avalokiteshwara is the most awe-inspiring representation of the kindness of these enlightened beings. This compassion and knowledge associated with Avalokiteshwara traveled to China, where combined with the qualities of White Tara and local traditions, it took a benevolent female form, known as “Kuan Yin”- literally, one who hears sounds (of the distressed souls).
In this splendid wooden statue of Kuan-Yin, the Chinese Bodhisattva is standing on a flawlessly carved lotus. The detailing on the open petals of the lotus is evidence of the skills of the maker of this wood Kuan-Yin statue. Her attire and robes whose sways are artistically captured in the wood idol are reminiscent of traditional Chinese dresses. Kuan-Yin’s hair is tied in an ethnic updo, on which sits a figure in the posture of “dhyana”, probably Amitabha, who is considered her teacher.
Contrasting with the animation in the sway of the robe, Kuan-Yin’s face inspires a divine stillness. With an inward smile, she holds her right hand in the gesture of imparting knowledge, while in her left hand, attesting to her proximity to the personality and idea of Avalokiteshwara is a long stem of the lotus, with a bud and a leaf- both the elements elegantly presented in the medium of wood.
Praises for the polish of the wood Kuan-Yin statue and the carving of lines and folds of her drapery deserve a separate mention. Standing majestically on the lotus pedestal, Kuan-Yin imparts the wisdom to go beyond the cycle of birth and death.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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