Dehua Standing Guanyin Holding a Ruyi Scepter

This standing Guanyin rises to 48 cm from an ornate lotus base, with layered robes drawing the eye upward to a ruyi held at the center of the figure. The height gives the sculpture architectural presence, while four finishes shift it from restrained white to richly colored ceremonial display.

The ruyi, whose name carries the sense of "as you wish," has long served in Chinese art as an auspicious emblem of wishes fulfilled and affairs proceeding smoothly. In Guanyin's hands, it joins benevolent hope with the bodhisattva's compassion. The figure is especially meaningful for a new home, a milestone, or a place of personal devotion as a blessing for harmony, protection, and worthy wishes brought toward fulfillment.

At 48 cm, the tall uninterrupted silhouette reads as architecture as much as sculpture. White emphasizes the robe folds; restrained gold-toned details add definition; green and purple polychrome versions make the robes the visual focus. A stable console, pedestal or deep cabinet gives the ruyi and lotus base room to be seen.

• Origin: Dehua, Fujian, China
• Material: Dehua porcelain
• Finishes: White glaze, white with gold-toned details, green polychrome or purple polychrome
• Iconography: Standing Guanyin holding a ruyi on an ornate lotus base
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.5 x 48 cm / 6.5 x 5.7 x 18.9 in
• Care: Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth; display on a stable surface