AA-2026-4D15DA
On the image
A standing figure, possibly a Bodhisattva, carved with intricate drapery and a placid expression, holds a small object in its left hand. In the 1970s, many Westerners sought out these depictions of enlightenment, hoping some of the calm might rub off. The figure seems oblivious to its journey across continents.
It stands on a dark, carved pedestal, set against a stark, solid red background. This minimalist display was considered quite modern, allowing the object to 'speak for itself' without the distraction of, say, a flowery wallpaper or a television set. The aesthetic goal was often to make a statement, even if the statement was just "I own an interesting thing."
The piece conveys a sense of peaceful contemplation, which might have been a welcome contrast to the prevailing fashion trends and disco beats of the era. One can assume it inspired precisely the amount of quiet reflection its owner intended.
The historian's note
This is a depiction of a standing Buddhist figure, likely a Bodhisattva such as Guanyin, characterized by its serene expression, elaborate drapery, and the small object held in its hand, possibly a lotus or vase, common attributes for these deities. The material appears to be ivory or a finely carved bone or resin imitation, mounted on a dark wooden base.
The style is indicative of East Asian craftsmanship, commonly found in China or Japan. Such statues were frequently produced for both religious devotion and export, particularly from the late 19th through the mid-20th century.
During the 1970s, there was significant interest in collecting Asian art and decorative objects in Western countries, with many pieces acquired through trade, travel, or established art markets. This statue represents a typical example of such decorative imports from the period.
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Standing Bodhisattva Statue, 1970s. 1970–1979. Archive & Atlas, Historical Image Library, AA-2026-4D15DA. https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/standing-bodhisattva-statue-1970s.
@misc{aaAA20264D15DA,
title = {Standing Bodhisattva Statue, 1970s},
year = {1970–1979},
howpublished = {Archive \& Atlas, Historical Image Library},
note = {Accession AA-2026-4D15DA},
url = {https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/standing-bodhisattva-statue-1970s}
}TY - ART TI - Standing Bodhisattva Statue, 1970s PY - 1970–1979 PB - Archive & Atlas, Historical Image Library AN - AA-2026-4D15DA UR - https://thearchive.archiveandatlas.com/library/standing-bodhisattva-statue-1970s ER -
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