Queen Mother of the West Statue - Xi Wang Mu

Very large statue of Xiwangmu (Queen Mother of the West). Hand carved camphor wood, gesso and polychrome pigment. Late 19th Century, Sichuan Province, China. As is typical of most depictions, she is is shown seated and holding court within her palace on the mythological Mount Kunlun, dressed in long sleeved layered robes. Her hands enclose a space in which a gui, a wood paddle or marker, can be placed, on which is written the prayers of supplicants. Her face holds serene expression framed by pendulous earlobes, with jewellery and an elaborate Phoenix headdress. Her large prayer box is open and empty.

Sometimes considered as Quan Yin, Xi Wang Mu is a mother goddess in Chinese religion and mythology, and is generally associated with Taoism as its highest ranking goddess. She is believed to be the dispenser of longevity, prosperity and eternal bliss. She is also associated with the west. She is also the wife of Yuhuang Dadi (the Jade Emperor)