The front and back of this rectangular piece of pottery are hollowed out to resemble cave-like niches for Buddhist statues. Inside the niche on the front is a sitting Guanyin. Her right leg is bent while her left leg is seated in the lotus position. Her two hands are resting lightly on her knees in a comfortable pose that does not detract from her dignity. She is wearing a jeweled crown on her head and a pearl necklace is draped on her shoulders. Behind her, curling clouds can be seen.

Moving to the back of the object, you will see two figures of children. The environment surrounding the children and their clothes and ornaments are much plainer than that of Guanyin, but they are equally refined. The posture and expression of the child on the side are particularly lively. Could it be the child is calling someone?!

The quality of Guanyin figures such as this made by the kilns of Jingdezhen during the Yuan dynasty are outstanding. Molds and pinching were used during production, and this work shows the artistry that went into the pinched parts!

Blue-white glaze has been applied to the heads, faces, and limbs of the figures and to the clouds. This glaze was a new development in Jingdezhen during the years of the Northern Song dynasty and became wildly popular during the Song and Yuan dynasties. The glaze and ornamentation of this niche show the characteristics of the blue-white pottery of the Yuan dynasty and the figures inside are beautiful. Undoubtedly, this niche has much to offer for the research of culture and art!