Staff in Hand, Pearl Held High

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This wood-toned bodhisattva sits high on a draped seat, a tall staff in hand. The five-Buddha crown rises above the face, its ribbons falling to the shoulders, and beaded necklaces rest in layers across the chest. The right hand grips a monk's staff nearly as tall as the crown itself, its head an openwork scroll of cloud pattern, while the left hand is raised at the chest, presenting a round pearl. One leg is folded, the other foot lowered to rest among the carved clouds of the base, where a lion's head peers out at the side. Below, at the front of the seat, two small seated figures are carved — a bearded elder with a crooked staff and a young attendant with palms together, as if waiting in attendance. Deep, warm wood tones and a commanding scale make it a natural principal piece for a shrine, or the anchor of a room.