Guanyin is the Chinese form of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Bodhisattvas are enlightened, compassionate beings who assist the spiritual goals of others. They are often distinguished from Buddhas by their princely clothing and adornments, indicating their continued presence in the world of humans. The worship of Guanyin in China began between the 5th and the 6th century and eventually became one of the most popular Buddhist deities in China. Pair of carved limestone standing figures of Guanyin, portrayed in the relaxed and sensuous tribhanga (“S-curve”) position, the body covered in clinging, overlapping robes. The front of the outer robe has folds all over, with the top hem of the robe turned over, leaving the upper part of the chest exposed, while their shoulders are covered by shawls.

Early Buddhist sculpture in China owes much to the Indian tradition and is particularly influenced by sculpture produced during the Gupta period (4th to 6th century).