Qing Dynasty ivory Guanyin standing on a lotus flower and holding a lotus flower in her hands. Ivory in excellent condition. Measurements: cm h 33.5x7 Guanyin represents the feminine personification of Avalokitesvara, bodhisattva of great compassion, to whom the well-known mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is connected. It is a personification belonging in particular to the Chinese spiritual tradition. She is venerated in Mahayana Buddhism as a bodhisattva: in this tradition, the Heart Sutra is attributed to her; while in the Taoist tradition, she is attributed the gift of immortality. This characteristic in particular is associated with the legend that she reincarnated as Princess Miaoshan. In Tibetan Buddhism she is instead associated with Tara. Literally her name means "She who listens to the cries of the world". The name Guanyin in fact consists of three sounds with precise meanings: Guan – which renders the Sanskrit vipasyana "to observe, listen, understand" shi – which refers to the suffering cycle of samsara of continuous rebirths in the world yin – which means "sound, lament". One of the most widespread representations is that with a thousand arms, which directly reflects the symbolism connected to the representation of Avalokitesvara. Of these thousand arms, four are highlighted compared to all those in the background and each holds an eye, symbolizing her constant attention to the pains of the world. However, there are many forms in which Guanyin can be represented: the Lotus Sutra lists as many as 33, 7 of which are female. Sometimes she is dressed entirely in white, inside a lotus flower, always white. In her right hand she holds a vase or jug, containing the nectar of immortality, while in her left a willow branch, symbolizing the willingness to bend and bow to the requests and prayers of all living beings. Sometimes she is represented together with her two disciples: Longnu - in Sanskrit NagaKanya "Princess of the Nagas" - who became her disciple as told in the legend (which explains why Guanyin is sometimes represented, in Chinese art, in the act of riding a dragon) and Shancai, both depicted as children. Sometimes she is depicted accompanied by a white parrot, on her right, carrying a pearl in its beak, a symbol of filial love.