The Thousand-Hand Guanyin Dance.
Nov. 4th, 2010 06:58 pmAvalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, is a mainstain of Mahayana Buddhism. This is particularly true in Japan where he is known as Kannon and his thousand-handed manifestation was especially popular, being a major figure in Esoteric religious practices. In China, this bodhisattva (there known as Guanyin) also managed to maintain popularity. There, the bodhisattva was significantly feminized and associated with childbirth. And, apparently, made great subject matter for artistic practices of varying kinds.
Here's an awesome example, courtesy of Chinese class:
Thousand-Hand Guanyin Dance
Here's an awesome example, courtesy of Chinese class:
Thousand-Hand Guanyin Dance