Guanyin Porcelain  Goddess Figure | Authentic Shiwan Ware | Vintage Chinese Bodhisattva of Mercy (35cm)

Graceful and serene, this beautifully sculpted porcelain figure represents Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion in Chinese Buddhism. Revered as a protector of the vulnerable and a listener of the worlds suffering, Guanyin embodies mercy, healing, and divine feminine power. She is shown standing atop swirling, wave-like formations, dressed in flowing white robes with soft, hand-painted features and an ethereal presence. The figure stands approximately 35 cm tall with a base diameter of 9.5 cm and is in excellent vintage condition, free from chips, cracks, or restoration.

Though this piece bears no visible maker's stamp or impressed seal on the base, the style, glaze quality, and facial execution strongly suggest it originates from the Shiwan kilns in the Guangdong province of China a region renowned for its expressive ceramic figures since the late Qing dynasty. Shiwan ware became especially popular during the mid-20th century, when artisans blended traditional religious subjects with modern techniques to create decorative export-quality art for international collectors. The slightly iridescent glaze and crisp sculpting on this figure are consistent with this period of high craftsmanship.

This piece, along with several others listed under the LouzAttic Chinese Collection, comes from the carefully preserved estate of a Dutch couple who settled in South Africa and travelled frequently to China during the 1960s to 1980s. Many of their acquisitions were made directly from workshops and kilns, and the quality and subject matter of their collection reflect a discerning eye for cultural significance and craftsmanship. While unmarked, this Guanyin figure is consistent in style and glaze with other authentic Shiwan pieces from that mid-century period.

Guanyin's expression is one of calm compassion her head bowed slightly, her robe finely detailed with fluid motion. This balance of sculptural elegance and spiritual symbolism made Shiwan figures highly desirable during the mid-century export boom, particularly to Western and Southeast Asian collectors seeking meaningful decor with cultural roots. While unmarked Shiwan pieces are not uncommon, their quality often speaks for itself and in this case, the workmanship more than justifies the attribution.

If you'd like to purchase both Guanyin (LAC 007) and Guan Yu (LAC 006) as a symbolic duo, we offer a combined deal of R6,000 for both. Simply drop us a message and we'll gladly adjust the pricing for you. Lets make the set yours.