Guanyin (Guanshi'yin, Kuan-yin, Kuan-shih Yin) is the bodhisattva of compassion for East Asian Buddhists, also known as the Chinese Bodhisattva of Compassion, and usually in female form. It is believed that Guanyin originated as the Sanskrit Avalokitesvara, her male form. Commonly known in the West as the Goddess of Mercy, she is also revered by Chinese Taoists as an Immortal. Although Guanyin's origin is still debated among scholars, the official Buddhist view is that she originated with the male Avalokiteshvara. It is said that Chinese fishermen used to pray to her to ensure safe voyages.
Guan Yin is extremely popular in Chinese folk belief, worshipped in Chinese communities throughout East and South East Asia. Due to her unconditional love, compassion, and mercy, she is revered in the general Chinese population. She is also seen as a fertility goddess and champion of the unfortunate, sick, poor, disabled, and those in trouble. Some Chinese coastal and river areas regard her as protector of fishermen, sailors, and people out at sea. Many have also come to believe that Mazu, Taoist goddess of the sea, is a manifestation of Guan Yin. She is worshipped as a rice goddess, due to her association with the legend of the Great Flood in which she sent a dog with rice grains in its tail. Among business people and traders, she is looked upon as a goddess of luck and fortune. In more recent times, she has been known as a protector of air travelers.
Cold Cast is a modern method of casting sculptures using a mixture of resin and powdered polymer materials. The finished sculpture has a surface which looks very similar to traditionally cast material, but tends to be much lighter.
