Guanyin - période République - Bronze - China

Guanyin seated on a bench
Republic Period (1912–1949)
First half of the XXth century
China
Copper alloy
Dimensions: 8 × 8 × 3.5 cm

Elegant and singular representation of Guanyin, bodhisattva of Compassion, depicted in a relaxed attitude on a long bench. Created in copper alloy during the Republic of China period, this small sculpture stands out for the finesse of its modeling, attention to detail, and the particularly refined character of its composition.

Guanyin adopts here a free and graceful posture with one leg folded and raised while the other descends smoothly in front of the bench. The arm naturally rests on the knee, giving the whole a remarkable sense of calm and spontaneity. This relaxed position departs from the hieratic frontalism of traditional cult representations and gives the deity a more intimate and contemplative presence.

The face, delicately modeled, presents a serene expression, with downcast eyes and tranquil features. The elaborate coiffure is gathered into a high bun with the various strands carefully indicated. The torso is enriched with small pearl-like ornaments in relief, while the shoulders and chest display meticulously worked decorative elements. Great care has been given to the treatment of the garments. The long drapery clings to the body before unfolding into successive and deeply drawn folds around the legs. The edges, the overlapping fabric, and the small folds falling in front of the seat create a play of volumes particularly lively despite the small dimensions of the work.

The bench itself constitutes a remarkable element of the composition. Its long rectangular top is treated to suggest the grain and irregularities of a wooden surface. The edges are also worked, while the four slightly splayed feet are connected by crossbars. At the ends of the top appear small pierced and sculpted elements, evoking the decorative inlays of traditional Chinese furniture. These architectural details, visible from the front, profile, and back, testify to the care given to a part that could have been nothing more than a simple support.

The back reveals the wide cloak descending from the shoulders, the full construction of the bench, and its crossbars. Even the underside preserves the traces and irregularities inherent to casting, allowing appreciation of the overall construction.

The surface shows a beautiful nuanced patina, blending brown-red, coppery tones and traces of oxidation. Wear on the protruding parts reveals the warm copper tones at times, especially on the edges of the bench. These surface variations enhance the relief of the modeling and give this miniature work a visually rich depth. Object in good condition.

Through its unusual iconography, the elegance of the posture, and above all the remarkable meticulousness accorded to both the figure and the furniture, this small Guanyin constitutes a fine example of the careful production of Chinese artisans.