Ekadashamukha Avalokiteshvara (Eleven-headed)
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Orientation 2
Display 2

ABS 332

 Code: ABS 332

  Country: Tibet

  Style:

  Date: 1100 - 1300

  Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 8.5 x 16.7 x 4

  Materials: Brass

Ekadashamukha Avalokiteshvara (Eleven-headed)

Seated legs crossed in meditation on a double lotus pedestal, the bodhisattva has three pairs of hands: the first is joined in salutation, the second is raised (with lost attributes) and the last performs the generosity gesture with the right hand holding a ewer.

Represented with eleven faces stacked in five rows, he is Avalokiteshvara, bodhisattva of compassion, under an unusual Ekadashamukha or “Eleven faces” manifestation. These usually have eight or a thousand arms (see ABS 054 and ABP 004). Young and handsome, he is adorned with the royal attire of the divine manifestations.

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 Lamas are considered his manifestations.