Buddhist Divinity 1710 - 1725

This porcelain figure of a Buddhist Divinity was created by the Meissen Manufactory. The figure is small, just over three inches tall. Its smooth, shiny surface reflects light, emphasizing its delicate construction. The figure's body and garb offer contrasting textures. The smooth, dark glaze of the central body contrasts with the lighter, patterned coat. The floral designs on the coat use repetition and symmetry. Notice the careful arrangement of shapes, which creates a visual rhythm around the figure. The dark glaze might be viewed as obscuring or concealing the figure's form. This tension between revealing and concealing is central to understanding how the piece destabilizes fixed categories. The figure invites ongoing interpretation, challenging us to look beyond immediate appearances and consider the deeper cultural and philosophical contexts at play.