Statue of Guanyin – Song Dynasty (960–1279) – Polychrome Terracotta
A superb statue of Guanyin dating from the Song Dynasty (960–1279), made of polychrome terracotta and remarkably well-preserved for a piece of such antiquity. This effigy, with a beautiful height of 55 cm and a width of 25 cm, perfectly illustrates the finesse and elegance of Chinese religious sculptures from the Song period, which is considered an artistic golden age.

Guanyin, the Sinicized name of Avalokiteśvara, embodies Buddhist compassion. Initially represented in a male form, the deity gradually adopts a feminized appearance from the Song era, while still retaining a certain masculinity in the features and posture. This stylistic transition is perfectly perceptible here, enriching the piece with an incomparable historical and spiritual dimension.