Bottle

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The shape of this vase most likely derives from Indian examples used to sprinkle water and other libations during ceremonies. Such vessels were introduced to China with Buddhism and can often be seen in the hands of bodhisattvas, particularly Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin). One of the Chinese names for vessels of this type is Guanyin ping, or “Avalokiteshvara vase.”

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art