Chinese, Ming dynasty
(1368-1644)
Zhang Wei
(Chinese
,
active 1573–1620)
Guanyin (Avalokitesvara)
17th century
Dehua ware; porcelain with white glaze
7¾ x 5 x 5 in
19.69 x 12.70 x 12.70 cm
Bequest of Forrest R. Brauer
85.1477
The flowing contours, fine modeling, and creamy white glaze are all characteristic of ceramic sculptures made at the Dehua kiln in Fujian Province during the Ming dynasty. Two identical seals on the back of the statue reveal that this Guanyin, bodhisattva of compassion, was created by Zhang Wei, a master of 17th century sculpture of the Dehua kiln.