This figure, known as Thousand–li Eyes (Qianliyan 千里眼), along with Wind-Favouring Ears (Shunfeng’er 顺风耳), are Goddess of Sea Guardians, who flank the goddess during festival processions held in honour of the goddess’ birthday. These guardians were demons whom she had subdued and still bear demonic appearances.They appear twice in the procession - once as small idols flanking the goddess' image inside the sedan, and again ahead of the sedan, as large procession idols. The idols pave the way for the sedan's approach. Along with a parasol and plaques, they announce the arrival of the Goddess and reinforce her status as an influential deity.The image of the goddess along with procession idols, are modeled after the imperial family. Her procession paraphernalia thus resembles those used on a royal outing.Similar and simpler procession paraphernalia have been used since the late 18th century in the Fujian province for the Goddess of the Sea birthday celebrations. Beyond South China, her devotees are found mainly amongst Chinese immigrant settlements in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau and South East Asia (mainly Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia). During the Cultural Revolution, religious activities like these were banned. However, today it continues to flourish in Taiwan and some of these countries but their scale varies.
