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Personal Shrine with Bodhisattva Gwaneum (Avalokiteshvara) and Guardian Figure, 10th-12th century. Gilt bronze, 1 13/16 × 1 1/2 in. (4.6 × 3.8 cm). Lent by the Carroll Family Collection, L2021.3.10a-b. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Personal Shrine with Bodhisattva Gwaneum (Avalokiteshvara) and Guardian Figure
10th-12th century
Maker Unknown
Asian Art
This tiny shrine contains an image of the Bodhisattva Gwaneum (Avalokiteshvara) accompanied by a guardian in military garb. When the sliding cover was in place, the image was protected and the shrine could be carried by a faithful Buddhist. Such portable devotional items likely served both as focal points for prayer and as amulets, protecting the wearer through the constant presence of the Bodhisattva.