Chinese - Seated Guanyin (Kuan-yin) Bodhisattva - Walters 25256 - Detail E

The Bodhisattva Guanyin is a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhism, particularly in China and East Asia. Also known as Avalokitesvara, Guanyin is a bodhisattva, which means an enlightened being who has chosen to postpone her own entry into nirvana (the ultimate state of liberation) in order to help others achieve enlightenment. Guanyin is often depicted as a female figure, although in some traditions Guanyin is seen as genderless or male. She is associated with compassion, mercy and kindness, and is believed to hear the cries of those in need and offer assistance. In Chinese Buddhism, Guanyin is often depicted holding a vase of pure water, representing the purity of her compassion and her ability to purify the suffering of others. She is also sometimes depicted with a thousand arms, each holding a different object or performing a different action, symbolising her ability to reach out and help many people at once. Guanyin is a popular figure in East Asian culture and is often worshipped by people seeking comfort, healing and protection. Her image can be found in temples, homes and other places of worship throughout China, Japan, Korea and other parts of Asia.