Ritual Buddhist Bottle Vase and Cover, 7th-8th century, 8 3/16 x 4 1/4 in. (20.8 x 10.8 cm) (vase without cover), Bronze, China, 7th-8th century, Made for Buddhist rituals, this finely finished, elegantly proportioned, lidded bottle vase and basin can be associated with the bodhisattva Guanyin (Avalokitesvara). Called an ambrosia vase, it is the type carried by Guanyin and is said to carry the elixir that comforts mortals who are seeking salvation.
Ritual Buddhist Bottle Vase and Cover, 7th-8th century, 8 3/16 x 4 1/4 in. (20.8 x 10.8 cm) (vase without cover), Bronze, China, 7th-8th century, Made for Buddhist rituals, this finely finished, elegantly proportioned, lidded bottle vase and basin can be associated with the bodhisattva Guanyin (Avalokitesvara). Called an ambrosia vase, it is the type carried by Guanyin and is said to carry the elixir that comforts mortals who are seeking salvation.