Wutaishan Nanchan Temple Main Hall: Manjusri Bodhisattva

CHINA, Shanxi, Xinzhou; Tang dynasty

Located on the left side of the Sakyamuni Buddha in the main hall, this Manjusri statue sits cross-legged on a lotus saddle that is mounted on the back of a caparisoned lion. A central lock of hair is threaded through the intricate floral headdress. The Bodhisattva wears a necklace that hangs down over an elegantly embroidered garb that links with the belt at the Bodhisattva’s waist. Both hands are in karana (warding off evil) mudra. Next to Manjusri is the lion keeper who has one fist clenched. The figure wears a high hat that is strapped under the chin. Next to the keeper is a smiling child in a skirt embroidered with flowers. He is shown gazing up at Manjusri with palms joined in reverence.