Avalokiteshvara Padmapani – The “Lotus Bearer”
See it in the Museum
India and Nepal
Orientation 3
Display 4
ABS 089
Code: ABS 089
Country: India (north-east)
Style: Late Pala Style
Date: 1100 - 1200
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 7.3 x 12 x 4.5
Materials: Brass
Avalokiteshvara Padmapani – The “Lotus Bearer”
Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezi in Tibetan) is seated on a double lotus pedestal in the attitude of ease, his right foot resting on a small flower blooming from the pedestal. His right extended hand performs the generosity gesture while his left holds a lotus flower, his distinctive attribute designating him as Padmapani, the “Lotus bearer.” Adorned with the royal attire of the divine manifestations, his long hair is knotted in a matted crown in the manner of Indian ascetics, hosting the image of Buddha Amitabha, Lord of his family.
Avalokiteshvara is one of the most revered bodhisattvas. He personifies the compassion of all Buddhas. In Tibet, his mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is recited on all occasions. He is the patron deity of Tibet, and the Dalaï Lama is considered his manifestation.
Bodhisattvas are “heroes for the awakening.” They are advanced practitioners who are motivated by compassion, and who strive to help all sentient beings to attain liberation on their path to perfect Buddhahood. Their royal adornments symbolise the quality of their spiritual realisation.
Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezi in Tibetan) is seated on a double lotus pedestal in the attitude of ease, his right foot resting on a small flower blooming from the pedestal. His right extended hand performs the generosity gesture while his left holds a lotus flower, his distinctive attribute designating him as Padmapani, the “Lotus bearer.” Adorned with the royal attire of the divine manifestations, his long hair is knotted in a matted crown in the manner of Indian ascetics, hosting the image of Buddha Amitabha, Lord of his family.
Avalokiteshvara is one of the most revered bodhisattvas. He personifies the compassion of all Buddhas. In Tibet, his mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is recited on all occasions. He is the patron deity of Tibet, and the Dalaï Lama is considered his manifestation.
Bodhisattvas are “heroes for the awakening.” They are advanced practitioners who are motivated by compassion, and who strive to help all sentient beings to attain liberation on their path to perfect Buddhahood. Their royal adornments symbolise the quality of their spiritual realisation.