Antique Chinese devotional sculpture of Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara), seated upon a guardian beast.
01 February 2026
Description

Description: This finely carved devotional sculpture depicts Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, seated in a composed and serene posture atop a mythical guardian beast, symbolizing protection and spiritual authority. The figure is rendered with a calm facial expression, softly modeled features, and flowing robes decorated with incised geometric and textile-inspired motifs. The guardian beast beneath is robustly carved, with stylized features and suspended ornamental elements.

Dimensions

24x19

Acquired from
Other
For sale
Yes
Answered within 1 day
By David U.
Feb 02, 20:28 UTC
Fair Market Value
$300 - $800 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is a composite Chinese devotional sculpture depicting Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara) seated atop a guardian beast, carved in a pale bone or ivory-substitute material and mounted on a stepped base constructed from laminated panels. Based on the visible construction, including the tiled block structure of the base, uniform surface tone, incised textile patterns, and modern adhesive joins, this is not an antique temple carving but a late 20th century decorative devotional piece produced for the export or home altar market, most likely dating from the 1970s to 1990s. Traditional Qing or earlier Guanyin figures were carved from solid wood, stone, or ivory with integral bases and hand-tool evidence, whereas this example shows modular assembly and modern fabrication methods. The iconography follows established Buddhist conventions, Guanyin seated in royal ease on a stylized qilin or guardian beast, but the execution and materials indicate contemporary manufacture rather than historical religious sculpture.

Condition appears fair to good, with light surface wear and handling marks, but no major structural breaks visible in the provided images. The laminated base and composite material significantly limit collectible value compared to authentic antique carvings. Comparable late 20th century Chinese Guanyin decorative sculptures of similar size typically sell between USD 300 and USD 800 depending on size and visual quality.

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