This embroidered Buddhist hanging depicts Kannon, one of the most popular bodhisattvas in Japan. Boddhisattvas are holy beings who have escaped the cycle of rebirth to obtain the the ultimate state of bliss, or nivarna, but have chosen to come back into the world to help human beings. Kannon is believed to be the personification of infinite compassion, who provides protection in the present life and helps transport the faithful to the Pure Land after death.