Cundi
Anonymous, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
Hanging scroll, gold ink and colors on paper, 126.7 x 81.1 cm

          The background of this hanging scroll is rendered in dark blue. Depicted herein is a large lotus blossom above the waves upon which Cundi, a form of Kuan-yin, solemnly sits cross-legged. The figure wears a five-pointed crown and jewelry draped across the torso. The face is distinguished by a third eye, and the figure has eighteen arms. Some of the hands form "mudras" (gestures), while most hold ritual objects. In each corner above, a heavenly deity approaches on clouds, while two dragon kings below support the lotus stem.

          The monk in the lower right probably is a Cundi practitioner. The work was done in gold ink with fine flowing lines. The drapery patterns appear complete and detailed, making this a fine Buddhist painting from the Ming dynasty.