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Click on image to view in high definition AVALOKITESHVARA Mongolia Late 19th C. Thanka, silk painting Size: 43 x 60 cm Avalokiteshvara, or Chenrezig in Tibetan, is an enlightened being who is a manifestation of all Buddhas' compassion, known as the Buddha of Compassion. He is here depicted seated in dhyanasana on a lotus base with his principle hands before his chest, the upper hands holding a mala and lotus; clad in a multicolored dhoti and adorned with sashes, various jewelry and an elaborate diadem; all set within a lush landscape. The principal hands that are pressed together at his heart symbolize respect: even though Avalokiteshvara is an enlightened being, he still shows respect to his guru, Buddha Amitabha. The upper left hand holds a white lotus flower, the classical symbol of enlightenment. A lotus begins its growth in the mud at the bottom of a lake, reached for the light, then blooms once it reaches the surface of the water, completely free from the stains of mud. The upper right hand holds a crystal mala of crystal beads, symbolizing that Avalokiteshvara can free all living beings from samsara and lead them to liberation. Paint shows a fine cracquelure overall, as is common in pieces of this age, but without substantial loss of paint, and the overall condition is excellent, without folds, holes or smudges. Provenance: Private collector, Kiev Comparison: Christies New York sale 2724, lot 277