Despite its overwhelming size, the Suwol Guanyin statue, made during the Ming Dynasty in China, demonstrates the characteristics of the compassionate Guanyin Bodhisattva through elaborate woodwork and subtle colors. The...
Despite its overwhelming size, the Suwol Guanyin statue, made during the Ming Dynasty in China, demonstrates the characteristics of the compassionate Guanyin Bodhisattva through elaborate woodwork and subtle colors. The Guanyin is a bodhisattva that rescues and institutionalizes rebirth with the mind of the great son, and enjoyed very popular popularity in East Asia including China and the Korean Peninsula. According to the Avatamsaka Sutra, the Gwaneum Bodhisattva stays at Botaraksan Mountain, where flowers that emit light and scent grow and water flows. Suwol Gwaneum refers to the shape of the Gwaneum Bodhisattva sitting on a strange rock formation in Botarak Mountain, looking down at the water and moon shadows under the feet, and the worshiping Seonjaedongja. This Suwol Gwaneum statue is a beautiful visualization of the faith of the Guanyin Bodhisattva staying at Botaraksan Mountain. Yuhui-jwa (遊戱坐), with one leg lowered down the pedestal with his left hand on a rocky pedestal and his right hand on a bent knee, frequently appears as a characteristic posture of Suwolgwaneum. The lotus flower with the left foot raised symbolizes the flow of water under the rocky pedestal, creating the effect of replacing the space with nature. With a comfortable posture, a soft face, half-eyes, and sagging ears reveal the calm and compassionate character of the Guanyin Bodhisattva. In addition, the storage decorated with fire and Buddha is an icon that clearly reveals the identity of the Guanyin Bodhisattva, and the high coffin decoration, the top coat, and the skein of the head flowing down from the shoulders show the characteristics of the Myeongdae Guanyin Bodhisattva sculpture. In addition, the expression of the beads decorated with the chest, the hanging cloth, and delicate wrinkles and knots reflect the outstanding artistry of the Ming Dynasty.