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The slim proportions of the body, a slight bend, well-articulated arms, torso, and the slightly large and inclined head convey the impressions of youthfulness. A scrolling motif of the halo, open work lotus pedestal, and the articulate rendering of the face suggest strong familiarity with Nepalese aesthetic conventions. Note also the incised decoration on the lower garment (dhoti), soles of his feet, and nice molded details on the book and the sword. It is possible that the sculpture was produced for a Tibetan patron in a Nepalese workshop.
Manjushri
OriginTibet
Date19th century
Dimensions38 1/4 × 30 1/2 × 19 3/8 in.
MediumMetal alloy
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art, Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin
Object numberC2013.9a-c
DescriptionA tantric bodhisattva and a deity associated with wisdom, this form of Manjushri is the focus of practice in all of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions. He is also one of the most represented in the art of Tibet and related cultural regions. Here he is seated on a lotus pedestal and has four arms. His upper left hand raises a sword, cutting through ignorance. In his opposite hand is a book, symbolizing wisdom and Buddhist teachings. His lower-left hand holds an arrow and its opposite hand holds a bow of penetrating wisdom.The slim proportions of the body, a slight bend, well-articulated arms, torso, and the slightly large and inclined head convey the impressions of youthfulness. A scrolling motif of the halo, open work lotus pedestal, and the articulate rendering of the face suggest strong familiarity with Nepalese aesthetic conventions. Note also the incised decoration on the lower garment (dhoti), soles of his feet, and nice molded details on the book and the sword. It is possible that the sculpture was produced for a Tibetan patron in a Nepalese workshop.
15th century
20th century
14th century
14th or 16th - 17th century
dated by inscription, 1871
12th-13th century
11th century
14th century
15th century
15th century
11th century