Kannon

Kannon
 9th century CE

Gallery location
Level 1, NGV International
 

About this work

This large bodhisattva (enlightened being) produced in the ninth century displays broad shoulders, a round face, a fulsome figure and a large crown, reminiscent of early Buddhist sculpture traditions brought to Japan from China during the sixth century. Its outstretched hand would have originally held a small vase containing lotus flowers – a symbol of Buddhism.

Artwork Details

Medium
lacquer on cypress wood
Measurements
199.8 × 76.5 × 57.5 cm (overall)
Place/s of Execution
Japan
Accession Number
334-D5
Department
Asian Art
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Felton Bequest, 1961
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Gordon Darling Foundation
Gallery location
Level 1, NGV International

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