Lot 17a, Auction 3/19/2026: Huge Qing Wood Figure Bodhisattva Mahasthamaprapta

$4,875.00

In stock

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. This exquisitely carved and exceptionally rare depiction represents Mahasthamaprapta, meaning “He who has obtained Great Power” in Sanskrit. A bodhisattva embodying the power of wisdom, Mahasthamaprapta is portrayed as both male and female, though more commonly as a female figure in China, where she is known as Daishizhi. She channels her immense energy, wisdom, and compassion toward the salvation of all beings. Mahasthamaprapta is primarily venerated in Pure Land Buddhism, a major branch of Mahayana Buddhism in East Asia, where she and Guanyin serve as the principal attendants of Buddha Amitabha. The three often appear together in paintings and sculptures, forming a sacred trinity, Amitabha at the center, Mahasthamaprapta to his right, and Guanyin to his left. This triad frequently occupies the main altar of Mahayana Buddhist temples. Size: 27.1″ L x 24.9″ W x 42.3″ H (68.8 cm x 63.2 cm x 107.4 cm)

In Chinese iconography, Daishizhi is depicted as a radiant young woman with a serene expression, bearing a striking resemblance to Guanyin. However, her distinguishing feature is the vial of compassion’s dew, delicately placed in her crown. She is sometimes shown with hands pressed together in anjali mudra, a gesture of reverence and devotion.

Condition: Professional repairs to fingers and chipping to base and lacquer. Some nicks and abrasions as shown, commensurate with age. Otherwise, nice detail and rich patina.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection

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