Avalokiteśvara is depicted here as a symbol of wisdom. With scriptures in her hands, she is sitting on a lotus pedestal, and lotus blossoms are blooming underneath her feet. Emerging from the clouds riding on a dragon, the bodhisattva comes to teach Buddhist thoughts and guides Sudhanakumāra in practicing meditation on the organ of hearing.
The painting uses refined gonbi techniques and color application to depict the two divine figures. Avalokiteśvara is dressed in white and accessorized with magnificent jewels, headpiece, and bracelets, appearing quite grand and majestic. Sudhanakumāra, on the other hand, is dressed in warm yellow clothing that echoes with Avalokiteśvara’s accessories and lotus pedestal. Their eyes are engaged, and their interaction enhances the image’s storytelling quality. Large areas of ink washes and fine lines are used to depict the body of the dragon and the waves, with contrasting elusive and tangible elements in the background to provide the entire composition with an enhanced sense of depth.
简中｜龙莲观音
Paintings
Xia Jing Shan
ink and color on paper
189x77
2004
題跋：于京都雲峰山莊薰沐敬寫夏荊山時年八十有一
印記：楠竹居士、夏荊山、空云水月
C-0-0026
