Vanishing Arts Gallery Videos

Q&A with Japan Foundation's Michael VanHartingsveldt about upcoming Edo Avant Garde film screening in Los Angeles
Vanishing Arts Gallery is pleased to share this timely Q&A with Michael VanHartingsveldt from the Japan Foundation Los Angeles about the Edo Avant Garde film screening on September 28th *** Edo Avant Garde:A Film by Linda Hoaglund English and Japanese with subtitles (83 mins) Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 11AM (Door opens at 10:45AM) The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles (5700 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 100, Los Angeles) FREE ADMISSION, NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED About the Film: During the Edo era (1603‒1868), Japanese artists innovated many strategies to bring the natural world and its creatures to life. To animate trees, puppies, waves, and clouds they incorporated asymmetry, abstraction, stylization, and empty space—techniques that profoundly influenced modern art in the West. In Linda Hoaglund’s film Edo Avant Garde, she explores the origins of Japanese artists’ creative efflorescence by filming some of the most closely-guarded Edo-era masterpieces in museum and private collections across the U.S. and Japan, unraveling how artists hundreds of years ago in one of the world’s most isolated countries captured the natural world in strikingly unique ways. The film’s exquisite cinematography by Japanese Academy Award-winner Norimichi Kasamatsu and outstanding original soundtrack by Satoshi Takeishi and Shoko Nagai present a remarkable, immersive experience of the Edo era’s byobu, folding screens. Simultaneously dynamic and mesmerizing, at its heart, Edo Avant Garde offers a unique opportunity to look closely and see how radically different Japanese art emerged in the 17th century. This screening will officially close the exhibition Inspired by Edo which was on view at the Japan Foundation from August 5. Director Linda Hoaglund will introduce her film and connect it to the beautiful art exhibited on the walls of the screening hall, then after the film has concluded, answer questions from the audience and make final remarks. For more information abou

Q&A with Michael VanHartingsveldt from the Japan Foundation Los Angeles about Edo Avant Garde Film Screening on September 28th
Vanishing Arts Gallery is pleased to the share this timely Q&A with Michael VanHartingsveldt from the Japan Foundation Los Angeles about the Edo Avant Garde film screening on September 28th *** Edo Avant Garde:A Film by Linda Hoaglund English and Japanese with subtitles (83 mins) Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 11AM (Door opens at 10:45AM) The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles (5700 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 100, Los Angeles) FREE ADMISSION, NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED About the Film: During the Edo era (1603‒1868), Japanese artists innovated many strategies to bring the natural world and its creatures to life. To animate trees, puppies, waves, and clouds they incorporated asymmetry, abstraction, stylization, and empty space—techniques that profoundly influenced modern art in the West. In Linda Hoaglund’s film Edo Avant Garde, she explores the origins of Japanese artists’ creative efflorescence by filming some of the most closely-guarded Edo-era masterpieces in museum and private collections across the U.S. and Japan, unraveling how artists hundreds of years ago in one of the world’s most isolated countries captured the natural world in strikingly unique ways. The film’s exquisite cinematography by Japanese Academy Award-winner Norimichi Kasamatsu and outstanding original soundtrack by Satoshi Takeishi and Shoko Nagai present a remarkable, immersive experience of the Edo era’s byobu, folding screens. Simultaneously dynamic and mesmerizing, at its heart, Edo Avant Garde offers a unique opportunity to look closely and see how radically different Japanese art emerged in the 17th century. This screening will officially close the exhibition Inspired by Edo which was on view at the Japan Foundation from August 5. Director Linda Hoaglund will introduce her film and connect it to the beautiful art exhibited on the walls of the screening hall, then after the film has concluded, answer questions from the audience and make final remarks. For more information

Vintage Yoruba “House of the Head” Shrine
Vintage Yoruba “House of the Head” Shrine (1657BSK) Nigeria, Mid-20th Century, Ht: 15″ Original price $785.00, New price: $595.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/cloth-and-leather-yoruba-crown-with-cowrie-shells-1657/ ● The Yoruba people of Nigeria worship the head, or ori, as the seat of personal destiny, power, character, consciousness, individuality, judgment and spiritual intuition. ● Beyond its specific reference to the head, ori is a metaphysical concept reflecting human consciousness, mental clarity and ethical worth. ● The “House of the Head,” or ile ori, is an ornamental four-sided crown covered with cowry shells; a symbolic creation that honors, protects and conceals the head. ● In African tribal art, cowries represent wealth and prestige, symbolizing fertility, birth and womanhood. ● Four leather panels surrounded by cowries slant inward from the edge to this head shrine’s flat top. ● Not intended to be worn, a rectangular cut out in the front allows the “user” to see. ● Head shrines of this kind are rare as they are traditionally destroyed upon the death of the owner and the cowries used as money. ● In 2024, the Fowler Museum exhibit The House Was Too Small: Yoruba Sacred Arts from Africa and Beyond featured several such cowry-shell head shrines. *** Vintage “crowns,” or the “house of the head,” were cowry shell shrines made to show gratitude for and recognition of the power of the head, reflecting Yoruban ideas of individuality and authority. Not meant to be worn, they are often placed on altars for prayer and divination and can be a symbol of a Yoruba deity. This headdress with its impressive design was included in the San Francisco International Airport, “Crowning Achievements” exhibition in April-August 1994. The acrylic stand is included. For more detailed information on this specific item, including purc

Tudi Gong and Tudi Po
Antique/Vintage Earth God Tudi Gong with Wife Tudi Po (16342LOE) China, 1900-1940, Ht: 12.375” Price: $785.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/vintage-carving-of-the-chinese-god-of-the-land-and-his-wife-tudi-gong-and-tudi-po-16342/ ● The Earth God Tudi Gong and his wife Tudi Po are from a rural agrarian area in Southern China. They look like a Chinese version of Grant Wood’s famous “American Gothic” couple! ● Often depicted together as house gods on home altars, in fields or local temples, they receive offerings/prayers for abundant harvests. ● As Lord of the Land and Family Dwellings, Tudi Gong is the lowest-ranking, but one of the most-widely worshiped Taoist and Popular Religion Earth Gods. ● Revered for being benevoleny and responsive, affectionately called “Grandpa” and “Grandma,” villagers seek their help daily, telling them about events in their lives. ● Farmers, businessmen, shopkeepers, homemakers seek their aid, support and advice for personal/village issues and help in times of need. ● Seated on backless chairs with decorative pedestals, they wear colorful lower rank civilian officials’ attire. ● Deeply carved faces highlighted with painted lips, “wrinkles” show age and wisdom; he has a traditional 3-part long beard. ● Carved and painted to be viewed in the round; back cavities indicate they were consecrated by a priest in an eye-opening ceremony. *** This merry pair of Tudi Gong, the Earth God with his wife Tudi Po are portrayed as very endearing, jolly and approachable deities who probably were placed on a home shrine in a rural agrarian area. They are dressed in elaborate but earthy robes in vibrant hues – he with a mandarin square of a bird and she with a stylized phoenix on her hat. Just being in their presence makes you want to smile and share their happiness, making a wonderful wedding or housewarming gift. For more information on this specific item, including purchasing options, please

Antique Ceremonial Drum with Painted Stretched Hide
📌This item has been donated to the One Drop of Kindness Foundation, a non-profit organization created by world-renowned Tibetan singer Yungchen Lhamo📌 Antique Ceremonial Drum with Painted Stretched Hide Drumhead Ht: 8½” Dia: 21½” Early 20th Century, China ● This radiant stretched hide over wood drum with vibrant designs was used to provide cadence for ritual ceremonies and presentations. ● Taoist deity God of Longevity Shou Xing (Shoulao) in the center is traditionally depicted with massive white beard, eyebrows, high forehead and benevolent smile. ● Vibrant, hand-painted images on top and bottom represent the Five Blessings of fu: longevity, health, fortune, a virtuous life and a natural death. ● Shou Xing holds a rosary representing enlightenment for all sentient beings and in the other hand, a bowl feeding the famous paradise flycatcher bird symbolizing longevity and happiness. ● Known for their long lifespans, deer are common longevity symbols, often seen accompanying Shou Xing. ● Deer (in foreground) are the only animals able to find the Chinese “fungus of immortality” (lingzhi mushroom), the food for immortals with medicinal properties. ● Lingzhi mushroom images resemble a wish-granting wand (ruyi); both mushrooms and wand mean “may all your wishes come true.” ● The side of the drum is elaborately decorated with raised designs and 4 ornamental metal handles for suspension. *** Vanishing Arts Gallery’s Jon and Cari Markell donated this wonderful item to One Drop of Kindness, a non-profit foundation created by world renowned Tibetan singer Yungchen Lhamo. Yungchen plans to use this drum as a percussive instrument on her highly anticipated next album, which she begins recording later this year. #yungchen #yungchenlhamo #vanishingartsgallery #vanishingarts #shouxing #fu

Ethiopian Pendant Crosses, Late 19th to 20th Century
Ethiopian Pendant Crosses Late 19th to Early 20th century https://vanishingarts.gallery/?s=ethiopian ● VA’s collection of Ethiopian pendant crosses reflect the 1600-year-old tradition of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. ● Ethiopia was the 2nd country after Armenia to make Christianity its official religion after its arrival from North Africa in the 4th century C.E. ● Up to the 15th century, the Ethiopian Church isolated itself from the outside world, maintaining the symbolism, purity and practices of earlier Christian cultures. ● In the last century, Ethiopian artisans mixed designs, shapes and patterns from several regions, eras and styles, blending Latin, Greek, Coptic, Egyptian and Celtic traditions. ● While Ethiopian pendant crosses were originally made of bone, wood and leather, the 18th century introduction of Austrian Maria Theresa Thaler coins made silver available; by the 19th century silver crosses were widespread. ● The “lost wax” casting process using melted Thalers produced one-of-a-kind crosses renowned for their creative beauty. ● Believed to have apotropaic powers to repel evil forces, Ethiopian pendant crosses are said to deflect harm and misfortune and ward off the “evil eye.” ● Lattice work “never-ending knots” entrap malevolent beings and spirits who are compelled to follow the endless lines for eternity. ● Pendant crosses featured here: top Fleury Cross, modified Egyptian Ankh Cross, bottom: Star of David, Latticework Cross, center: Latin Cross. ● Fleury Cross with three-part ends represents lily petals symbolizing the Trinity, when the 4 arms are combined, the 12 points symbolize the Apostles. ● The Star of David shows Ethiopia’s relationship with the Queen of Sheba and Jewish King Solomon; Menelik I, Ethiopia’s first emperor, was Solomon’s son with the Queen. ● Contemporary pendants are no longer made with lost wax; now they are cast, cut or manufactured from an assortment of metals

Antique/Vintage Rug with Double Dorje Design
Antique/Vintage Rug with Double Dorje Design (3372DRE) China circa 1920, Dimensions: 27” Square Price $335.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-vintage-rug-w-double-dorje-or-vajra-thunderbolt-china-3372dre/ ● This rug was made in China for Buddhists who were taught this form of Buddhism by Tibetan monks ● Rugs like this were made both for domestic Chinese use and export to Tibet. Made from wool and natural dyes, it has a cotton foundation, double weft, medium wool pile, and fine geometric designs surrounding a double dorje and a border fringe. ● The dorje (Tibetan) or vajra (Sanskrit) is associated with Vajrayana (AKA Tibetan, Tantric and Esoteric) Buddhism and plays an important role in Tibetan art and ritual. ● Literally meaning “indestructible,” it is a ritualistic tool symbolizing the properties of a diamond (indestructibility) and a thunderbolt (an irresistible force). ● It also represents the 12 great deeds of Shakyamuni Buddha and symbolizes compassion and wisdom. ● Used in rituals, a dorje dispels evil and untoward spirits and aids devotees on their path to Enlightenment. ● When two dorjes are crossed as here, the double dorje represents “that which cannot be destroyed, but which destroys all delusion that causes suffering.” ● It also symbolizes the impenetrable, indestructible state of Enlightenment or Nirvana. ● Often used with a bell for rituals and meditation, especially at the beginning of chanting, the combination clears the mind and brings focus. ● Held in the left hand, the bell represents the female wisdom principle and the Dorje in the right, the masculine principle of action. Their union signifies attainment of the enlightened mind. ● As a form of protection, a dorje can be worn as a pendant or placed on an altar as a meditative reminder of spiritual strength during the day. For more detailed information on this item, including purchasing options, please visit: https://vanishingarts.galle

Burmese Peacock with Inset Mirrors and Glass
Antique Peacock with Inset Mirrors and Glass (3122XOK) Burma/Myanmar, 18th-19th Century, Ht: 16.5” Price: $595.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-peacock-with-inset-mirrors-and-glass-3122xok-burma-myanmar-special-price/ ● Carved during Burma’s last dynasty, the Kon-Baung (1845-1941), this peacock with outspread tail feathers was probably placed over a religious or government building entrance. ● It likely was attached to an outdoor surface indicated by the hole under its claws. ● Since the peacock represents the sun and also was the emblem of the Kon-baung dynasty, it symbolizes the monarchy’s descendance from the sun. ● An iconic Buddhist symbol, the peacock is one of 108 images on the Buddha’s footprint. ● It reflects the fleeting nature of all things since peacocks appear and vanish as swiftly as they display and furl their tails. ● Like the peacock's tail, Enlightenment opens the mind to a multitude of colors. ● The effects of age and use with missing inserts, faded paint and nicely weathered wood add to its folk art like warmth and charm. ● Mounted on a frosted Acrylic stand to suit any setting. *** This peacock was probably placed over a government or religious building entrance in Mandalay during Burma’s last dynasty, the Konbaung (1845-1941), symbolizing the monarchy descending from the sun. An iconic Buddhist symbol, it reflects the fleeting nature of things. Since they are believed to be able to eat poisonous plants, peacocks are compared to Bodhisattvas who transform the poisonous mind of ignorance, desire and hatred into thoughts of enlightenment. For more detailed information on this item including purchasing options, please visit: https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-peacock-with-inset-mirrors-and-glass-3122xok-burma-myanmar-special-price/ [email protected] ● (213) 568-3030 #buddhism #peacock #vanishingartsgallery #vanishingarts

Video from AUTRY EXHIBIT: ReVOlt 1680/2180: Sirens & Sikas
Vanishing Arts Gallery attended the opening of ReVOlt 1680/2180: Sirens & Sikas, a fantastic new exhibition that just opened at the Autry Museum of the American West on Tuesday July 16th. Inspired by the original Pueblo Revolt in the American Southwest in 1680, the exhibition features the work of the extraordinarily talented multimedia artist Virgil Ortiz that is currently being developed into a feature-length film. The event featured an insightful Q&A discussion between Ortiz and Autry’s Chief Curator Dr. Amy Scott that provided a lot of context for the mind-blowing multimedia experience of the exhibition. For more information, visit: https://theautry.org/ ABOUT THE EXHIBITION ReVOlt 1680/2180: Sirens & Sikas is part of the exhibition, Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology and is among more than 60 exhibitions and programs presented as part of PST ART presented by Getty. It is a wonderful example of the exciting art and cultural events in the Los Angeles Vanishing Arts Gallery will be highlighting on its social media pages in the coming months. #autrymuseum #vanishingartsgallery #virgilortiz

Vanishing Arts Gallery attended the opening of ReVOlt 1680/2180: Sirens & Sikas, a fantastic new exhibition that just opened at the Autry Museum of the American West on Tuesday July 16th. Inspired by the original Pueblo Revolt in the American Southwest in 1680, the exhibition features the work of the extraordinarily talented multimedia artist Virgil Ortiz that is currently being developed into a feature-length film. The event featured an insightful Q&A discussion between Ortiz and Autry’s Chief Curator Dr. Amy Scott that provided a lot of context for the mind-blowing multimedia experience of the exhibition. For more information, visit: https://theautry.org/ ABOUT THE EXHIBITION ReVOlt 1680/2180: Sirens & Sikas is part of the exhibition, Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology and is among more than 60 exhibitions and programs presented as part of PST ART presented by Getty. It is a wonderful example of the exciting art and cultural events in the Los Angeles Vanishing Arts Gallery will be highlighting on its social media pages in the coming months. #autrymuseum #vanishingartsgallery #virgilortiz

Antique Carved Imperial Mazu
Antique Carved Imperial Mazu, (16348XSKE) South China, 19th-20th Century, Ht: 31.5" Price: $2700.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-statue-of-matzu-taoist-heavenly-empress-china/ ● Mazu (Matsu) is one of the great Chinese Goddesses, a compassionate protector who grants health, long life and safety to all regardless of status. ● An important female deity in Taoist religion, she is also highly revered in Chinese Popular/Folk Religion, Buddhism and Confucianism. ● Sailors often pray to her in one of the 5,000 Mazu temples worldwide for a safe and prosperous voyage. ● In China, she is called Mazu, meaning “Ancestor” or “Eternal Mother;” in South China, she is affectionately called “Ā-mā” or “grandmother/mother;” and in Taiwan she is “Holy Heavenly Mother,” “Empress of the Heavens” and “Daughter of the Dragon.” ● As a legendary 10th Century shaman, she protected and saved sailors, fishermen, merchants, travelers and those living near water. ● Before her death at 28, she climbed a mountain to meet her destiny, where she was engulfed by clouds, with orange and gold light carrying her to the heavens as a rainbow appeared. ● The rainbow colors symbolize the 5 Taoist elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood; and the Five Dhyani or Wisdom Buddhas. ● The statue’s back cavity indicates it was consecrated by a Taoist Monk. ● The Los Angeles Thien Hau Matsu Temple is filled with vibrant contemporary carvings of Mazu and other deities. *** Known in China as the “Protectress of the Sea,” she is one of the most popular sea deities in Asia, with followers in Taiwan, Japan and Vietnam. Here she is depicted wearing a phoenix headdress, elaborate regal robes with gilt appliqué, raised curvilinear designs, glass and mirror insets and intense hues of red, blue, green and yellow to allow those at sea needing aid to see her. She is the patron goddess of Taiwan and included in the UNESCO unintelligibl

Mysterious Nanhai Guanyin with Acolytes
Antique Nanhai Guanyin with Two Acolytes on Putuo (16240AKE) China, 18th Century Ht: 11.5” Price: $1350.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-nanhai-guanyin-of-the-south-sea-with-her-2-acolytes-on-putuo-16240ake/ ● This delicate carving of Nanhai Guanyin of the South Sea is among the finest in the VA Collection. ● As one of her many manifestations, Nanhai Guanyin became one of her most popular portrayals during the Ming Dynasty. ● Despite her origin in India as Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, folk tales and literature emphasized her “Chinese” heritage. ● Her name was translated to “Guanyin” in China, where she was embraced by Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian and Popular Religion devotees of all social classes. ● In this provincial carving, she sits on a rocky outcrop in front of her Tidal Sound Cave at Putuo in the South China Sea where she is said to reside. ● The site of miraculous events, Putuo became Guanyin’s national/international pilgrimage center during the Ming Dynasty. ● Nanhai Guanyin was often portrayed in a triad with her two young acolyte attendants. ● Shan Tsai, with his hands in prayer and bent knees showing he was disabled, is on her right; the Dragon Princess, offering the “illuminating pearl,” is on her left. ● Her lotus pedestal and the lotuses her acolytes stand on symbolize purity, the transcending of suffering and enlightenment. ● The sealed rear cavity indicates the statue was consecrated by a Buddhist monk. *** This small but powerful carving depicts Nanhai Guanyin of the South Sea with her two acolytes. The masterful carving, intricate presentation and gilt and lacquer coating of this piece suggest it was commissioned by and placed on the home altar of a wealthy devotee. Mounted on a uniquely fashioned frosted Acrylic base it is a serene yet elegant figure with a meditative aura that would enhance any environment. To view the special pricing now available on Van

Nanhai Guanyin with Amitabha Crown
Antique Lacquer and Gilt Carved Nanhai Guanyin in Meditation with a High Crown (16302BEME) China, 18th-19th Century, Ht: 18.5” Special Price $3200.00 ● This magnificent carving depicts Nanhai Guanyin of Southern Seas seated on a rocky outcrop in front of the Cave of Tidal Sound on Mount Putuo from where one can hear the tides below. ● Her pilgrimage site for over 1000 years, Putuo is renowned for its beauty and spirituality with natural wonders, golden beaches and religious sites. ● Seated in meditation with hands in her lap and feet in lotus position, she is the epitome of composure and serenity. ● The gentle placement of the open-thumb hands with elongated fingers is an unusual feature and beautifully carved. ● In Pure Land Buddhism, she wears a crown centered by a carved image of Buddha Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light. ● The elaborate red lacquer and gilt scalloped crown imparts a divine and solemn quality, reflecting her role as Amitabha’s principal attendant. ● The crown’s front and sides are bordered with a row of 19 circular beaded pearls, with each of the crown’s 5 lobes containing a large “pearl” in relief. ● Her regal hairstyle with a chignon and 3 plaits on each shoulder symbolizes that, with spiritual and physical beauty, she presides over both the sacred and material worlds. ● Her large pendulous earlobes are a sign of great wisdom. ● This elegant statue radiates spirituality and opulence, serenity and strength, compassion and grace to enhance any setting. *** This wonderfully carved Nanhai Guanyin statue is notable for its highly ornate and beautiful diadem centered by an elaborately framed image of Buddha Amitabha seated in meditation. Her vibrant aura radiates spirituality and opulence, serenity and strength, as well as compassion and grace, making this statue a truly masterful piece of art. To view the special pricing now available on Vanishing Arts Gallery's collection of Guanyin items, plea

Mysterious White-Hooded Guanyin with a Scroll
White-Hooded Guanyin in “Royal Ease” Holding a Scroll (16080LBE) China, 19th Century, Ht: 13.75" SPECIAL PRICE: $700.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/product/antique-white-hooded-guanyin-in-royal-ease-on-lotus-throne-16080lbe-special-price-700/ ● This carving represents Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion in one of her most frequently depicted manifestations called White-Hooded Guanyin. ● A significant figure in Pure Land Buddhism, Guanyin is the principal attendant of Amitabha Buddha of Infinite Light. ● Introduced in the 10th century Song Dynasty, White-Hooded Guanyin remains a frequent portrayal in temples and home shrines worldwide. ● Reflecting Song tradition, she is depicted here as a humble motherly figure in a white hood worn by women of the time. ● Although seated in lalitsana, the position of royal ease, here she is portrayed not purely in a regal manner, wearing a modest 3-part garment, no jewelry and a tight hood around her bun draped over her shoulders. ● Painted with polychrome colors (red, green, gold) over a white base, only traces of these colors are visible as they were removed from the piece. ● The back cavity indicates it was consecrated by a monk. ● Originally placed on a home altar, its meditative aura would enhance any surrounding space. *** This charming provincial statue is White Hooded Guanyin in lalitsana, seated on a lotus symbolizing purity, strength, rebirth, the flowering of the mind and the unfolding potential of all beings. Represented as a humble, motherly figure, her expression is one of pure joy with a gentle grin, half closed eyes and sweet smiling lips that project happiness and compassion. The scroll she holds symbolizes the 8 Buddhist sutras in which she is mentioned, specifically in the Lotus Sutra which describes how she hears and rescues devotees from all types of suffering. To view the special pricing now available on Vanishing Arts Gallery's collection of Guanyin items, please visit

Silver Hued Guanyin
Antique Silver Hued Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, in Meditation (16082SXKE) China, Qing Dynasty, 18th Century, Ht: 17½” Price: $3,375.00 ☸ Special Price: $2985.00 https://vanishingarts.gallery/carved-antique-bodhisattva-probably-guanyin-seated-in-meditation-16082/ ● This magnificent 18th century carving represents Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, the most revered female Mahayana Buddhist devotional figure in Asia since the 4th century. ● As a Celestial Bodhisattva who has attained enlightenment, she chose to postpone entering nirvana, perfect peace and happiness, to help all beings regardless of status, gender or life path to attain personal enlightenment. ● She sits in meditation with hands together in lap (dhyana mudra) and legs in lotus position (padmasana) with the soles of her feet up. ● This is the pose the Buddha assumed under the Bodhi Tree when he became fully aware and reached enlightenment. ● Her meditation focuses on the Buddha’s teachings (the dharma), the path to attain spiritual perfection. ● This pose is said to be a perfect balance which calms the brain, increases one’s awareness and intensifies focus. ● Recalling Song Dynasty style with elongated and soft features, Guanyin is seen as a human, relatable and accepting figure reflecting the everyday rather than idealized Chinese women. ● It is a perfect spiritual image for personal meditation and is a significant piece of masterful and beautiful art. *** This exquisite 18th-century statue of the Bodhisattva Guanyin is seated in serene meditation. She is a beautiful young woman, unpretentious yet elegant with smooth, gentle flowing lines that create an air of peaceful spirituality. Every strand of her hair and bun is carved with definition, and in perfect order. The original polychrome and lacquer finish has transformed into a glowing silver hue with a soft patina. To view the special pricing now available on Vanishing Arts Gallery's collecti