Taper Holder with Guanyin and Eighteen Disciples
Datelate 17th century
PeriodQing dynasty (1644–1911)
CultureChinese, late 17th century
MediumDehua ware; porcelain with transparent glaze
ClassificationCeramics
Provenancewith Ira Koger; gift to The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 2001
Credit LineGift of Ira and Nancy Koger, 2001
Object numberSN11122.71
This taper holder depicts Guanyin with an assembly of eighteen disciples gathered beneath the seated bodhisattva. The rocky grotto where they sit likely refers to Guanyin’s island paradise, Mount Putuo. These disciples, called luohan in Chinese or arhat in Sanskrit, were followers of the historical Buddha, Sakyamuni. In imagery, they are often depicted as eccentric figures with superhuman powers wearing monk’s garb. As can be seen in the lowest rows of this grouping, several luohan have animal mounts.
On View
On viewLocation
- Center for Asian Art, 3rd floor, Lobby, Case B
Collections
19th century
17th century
early 17th century
early 18th century
19th century
17th century