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Bodhisattva On Dragon  Chinese Sculpture in Grey Limestone Northern Dynasties Kuan-yin, Seated Bodhisattva on Dragon 5th – 6th Century Carved from grey limestone, this ancient stone sculpture depicts the Buddhist deity bodhisattva KwanYin riding a Chinese dragon frolicking in the whirlpool of the South Sea. The dragon symbolizes creative power, the spirit of change, and life force itself. There is no other KwanYin image more loved by the Chinese and Japanese. In Buddha lore, the bodhsisattva forgoes nirvana to save others and lead humankind to enlightenment even if it requires suffering. Motivated by pure compassion and love, the bodhisattva must develop an enlightened mind that generates the Six Perfections: generosity, ethics, patience, effort, concentration, and wisdom. 2004 Gift to the Museum from Mr. John Donaldson. Previous • Back to List • Next |