ABS 069
Code: ABS 069
Country: Tibet
Style:
Date: 1250 - 1350
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 7.1 x 12.2 x 4.1
Materials: Brass; decorated with dotted and linear design
Mañjushri – Bodhisattva of Wisdom
This magnificent statue of Mañjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom, is a perfect example of the Pala style in Tibet. Resting on a double lotus pedestal, leaning on his outstretched left arm he sits in the attitude known as the royal ease posture. Looking youthful, with long hair partially raised in a bun atop his head, he wears the royal regalia of India. On either side, stylized utpala flowers (blue waterlily) support his distinctive attributes: on the right, the sword of wisdom that cuts through ignorance and on the left, a manuscript, probably the Prajñaparamita or “The Perfection of Wisdom.” Although made in Tibet, this very fine statue takes up Indian stylistic elements and shows influence of the Pāla style beyond the borders of India.
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.
This magnificent statue of Mañjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom, is a perfect example of the Pala style in Tibet. Resting on a double lotus pedestal, leaning on his outstretched left arm he sits in the attitude known as the royal ease posture. Looking youthful, with long hair partially raised in a bun atop his head, he wears the royal regalia of India. On either side, stylized utpala flowers (blue waterlily) support his distinctive attributes: on the right, the sword of wisdom that cuts through ignorance and on the left, a manuscript, probably the Prajñaparamita or “The Perfection of Wisdom.” Although made in Tibet, this very fine statue takes up Indian stylistic elements and shows influence of the Pāla style beyond the borders of India.
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.