asian art

Guanyin

The form of Buddhism that became popular in China centered on the worship of bodhisattvas, beings who postpone their own escape from worldly existence in order to help others attain enlightenment.

One bodhisattva in particular attracted the devotion of Chinese Buddhists—Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion, whose name means “the one who always hears [prayers].”

Unlike Buddhas, who wear simple robes and have short curls of hair, bodhisattvas are depicted with elaborate clothing, jewelry, and hairstyles.

Pre-Columbian Art