The Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara, is one of the most popular deities in Nepal, where 108 forms of him are known. In his simplest form, extending his right hand in the gesture of giving and holding the stalk of a lotus (now broken) in his left, he is often called Padmapani, or “Lotus-in-Hand.”This sculpture is remarkable for its fluid simplicity of form, graceful proportions, and elegant jewelry. The subtle modeling of the body contrasts with the voluminous pointed dress- and scarf-ends and the large, slim-petaled lotus blossom. The reddish tone of the metal where the gilding has worn away indicates a high copper content, which is typical of Nepalese sculpture.

Artwork Details

Title
Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara
Dimensions
16 1/8 × 6 1/2 × 2 7/8 in.
Medium
Gilt copper alloy with semiprecious stone inlay
Origin
Nepal
Classification(s)
sculpture
Date
13th - 14th century
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Object number
C2005.16.8
HAR Number
65430
Published references
* Van Alphen, J. Collection Highlights: Rubin Museum of Art. New York: Rubin Museum of Art, 2014. Pp. 43, 80-81.* Vajracarya, Gautamavajra. Nepalese Seasons: Rain and Ritual. New York: Rubin Museum of Art, 2016. Cat 20: pp. 77-79, fn. 199-200.Publications (not found?):* Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Scott: Sotheby's, New York, March 16 and 17, 1988, no. 114* Estate of Alice Boner; Sotheby's, New York, June 2, 1992, no. 10

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Compassion

Concepts

The cultivation of a strong aspiration to help sentient beings overcome suffering. In Buddhist Mahayana teaching, compassion is the seed for attaining full enlightenment.  

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Bodhisattvas

Figure Type

Beings who aspire to become fully awakened like the Buddha and are dedicated to helping others on the path to enlightenment.

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Nepalese Regions

Region

The Himalayan kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were significant centers of Buddhist culture. Nepalese kings, Buddhist institutions, and ordinary people patronized the vibrant art guilds. The artistic traditions of the regions are well-known in Tibetan areas and beyond, and Newar artists have always been in high demand throughout Tibetan regions and Inner Asia.

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