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Photography by Bruce M. White. The Rubin Museum of Art. 2010.
Avalokiteshvara
Photography by Bruce M. White. The Rubin Museum of Art. 2010.
Photography by Bruce M. White. The Rubin Museum of Art. 2010.

Avalokiteshvara

OriginTibet
Date12th century
Dimensions13 × 9 × 6 7/8 in.
MediumCopper alloy
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2002.24.1
Himalayan Art Resources Number65117
DescriptionAvalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva who personifies the compassion of all the buddhas, is the most venerated deity in Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Seated in the posture of royal ease, with one leg pendant and one folded, he holds the stem of a lotus bud. The inlaid eyes and tuft of hair between them (urna), subtle smile, exquisite details of the knotted belt, incised lower garment (dhoti), and modeling of the body testify to the mastery of the sculptor, who closely followed Indian conventions. Older sculptures such as this were treasured by Tibetans and were often kept as heirlooms.
On view