Guanyin, Bodhisattva of Compassion

On February 6, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), debuts a new display of art from the prosperous and vibrant Song dynasty(960-1279)-regarded as a pinnacle of Chinese art and aesthetics. Opening in conjunction with the MFA's Lunar New Year celebration on Saturday, February 6, the gallery explores this golden era of Chinese art through some of the Museum's greatest treasures, including masterpieces of Chinese ceramics, paintings, calligraphy and sculpture.

The centerpiece of the gallery is the larger-than-life wood polychrome sculpture, Guanyin, Bodhisattva of Compassion (early 12th century). The object, which hasn't been on view since 1999, underwent an 18-month conservation process before being unveiled to the public. During the Song Dynasty, Buddhism fused with centuries-old Chinese philosophies and artistic techniques-inspiring new heights of painting, calligraphy, ceramics, gardens, poetry and art theory. The gallery is a contemplative space that evokes the aesthetics of the Song Dynasty.

Additional highlights of the gallery include the Nine Dragons scroll (dated 1244, by the scholar, official, poet and painter Chen Rong), widely celebrated as the greatest Chinese dragon painting in existence. Objects in the newly installed Paul and Helen Bernat Gallery, from elegant ceramics to exquisite painted scrolls, explore the incredible achievements of Song artists.

Press release available on mfa.org.

The conservation of Guanyin, Bodhisattva of Compassion, is generously supported by the Stockman Family Foundation and an anonymous gift. The new Song Gallery display was made possible by the Chauncey and Marion D. McCormick Family Foundation and individual supporters of the Art of Asia, Oceania and Africa Department.