Kumbum Monastery Central Hall: Eleven-Headed, Eight-Armed Avalokitesvara

CHINA, Qinghai, Xining; Qing dynasty

This image, painted on the portico of the central hall, was made between the 18th and 19th centuries by the Tibetan artist Shenpa. Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is depicted with bright white skin, and has eleven heads arranged in five rows. The red head of Amitayus Buddha is at the top. The central head at the bottom has slanted eyes and a peaceful expression. Two of the hands form the anjali (reverence) mudra in front of the chest. The top right hand holds a string of prayer beads, the middle hand holds a Dharma wheel, and the lowest hand forms the varada (wish-granting) mudra. The left hands hold a lotus, a bow and arrow, and a vase. Standing bare-footed upon a white lotus pedestal, the Bodhisattva is surrounded by a mandorla decorated with fine golden lines. Buddhas and Taras, arranged symmetrically, are shown to the sides of the central figure. Avalokitesvara, painted with vivid colors and soft, graceful lines, appears grand and imposing.