Page 39 - Bonhams May 11th 2017 London Thangka Collection

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Embodying the compassion of the Buddha, Avalokiteshvara was
incorporated into beliefs concerning the rebirth in the Pure Land of
Amitayus Buddha since the 1st-2nd century AD. At this time, the deity
effected the spiritual rebirth of the devotees in the blissful land, the
ideal atmosphere leading to peaceful nurturing and enlightenment.
According to the Karandavyuha Sutra and the Flower Garland Sutra,
both compiled between the 5th and the 6th centuries AD, the eleven
towering heads crowning the head of the deity designated the ten
steps towards enlightenment, culminating with the visualisation of the
Amitayus Buddha.

9 (reverse detail)