This figure is among the best in quality and preservation to have survived from the Jin Dynasty. The image is full-bodied yet imbued with a sense of stately movement effected by the flowing garments and twisting scarves that eddy around the figure. The deep carving and high relief drapery produce a dramatic effect of shadow and highlight, which, combined with the rich polychrome palette, result in a figure that is magnificent yet gentle, humanized and immediately appealing.
A tightly folded manuscript found in a sealed cavity in the back records that this image was repaired and repainted in 1348. The names of the artisans and donors are listed, and the name of the temple given as Meditation (Hall) of the Great Cloud Monastery.
Standing Bodhisattva, Chinese, Jin dynasty (1115-1234). Wood with polychrome and gilding, 75 inches (190.5 cm). The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, Missouri. Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, 51-42. Image courtesy Nelson-Atkins Media Services.
立菩萨，中国，金代（1115-1234）。 彩色和镀金木材，75 英寸（190.5 厘米）。 尼尔森-阿特金斯艺术博物馆，密苏里州堪萨斯城。 购买：William Rockhill Nelson Trust，51-42。 图片由纳尔逊-阿特金斯媒体服务公司提供。