Manuscript cover with Buddha Shakyamuni, Prajnaparamita, and Vairochana
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Chapel
Orientation 2
Display 1
ABM 005
Code: ABM 005
Country: Tibet
Style:
Date: 1200 - 1300
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 68.5 x 20.5
Materials: Wood
Manuscript cover with Buddha Shakyamuni, Prajnaparamita, and Vairochana
The graceful and elegant Prajñaparamita – the personification of the Perfection of wisdom – appears in the center of the book cover, seated on a lotus in front of a throne-like structure of stacked elephants, shardula griffons, makara, and naga. Of her four hands, the first two make the fearlessness and contemplation gestures, while the other two hold a vajra and the Prajnaparamita text that she embodies. The Buddha Shakyamuni is seated to her right, and to her left the jina Vairochana, recognizable by his characteristic gesture of the “highest awakening”. Intertwined around these three figures, flower stems support the eight auspicious signs: the parasol, fish, lotus, conch, precious vase, banner, endless knot, and wheel. A highly refined artwork, this cover reflects profound Indian and Nepalese stylistic influences.
The graceful and elegant Prajñaparamita – the personification of the Perfection of wisdom – appears in the center of the book cover, seated on a lotus in front of a throne-like structure of stacked elephants, shardula griffons, makara, and naga. Of her four hands, the first two make the fearlessness and contemplation gestures, while the other two hold a vajra and the Prajnaparamita text that she embodies. The Buddha Shakyamuni is seated to her right, and to her left the jina Vairochana, recognizable by his characteristic gesture of the “highest awakening”. Intertwined around these three figures, flower stems support the eight auspicious signs: the parasol, fish, lotus, conch, precious vase, banner, endless knot, and wheel. A highly refined artwork, this cover reflects profound Indian and Nepalese stylistic influences.