Mathura: Head of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva

INDIA, Uttar Pradesh, Mathura

The sculpture was unearthed from Mathura. The appearance of Amitabha Buddha on the headdress identifies this figure as Avalokitesvara. Not only is this an early representation of the Buddha, but it is also rare for including devotees paying reverence in the headdress. The headdress on which these images appear is particularly notable in other ways too. The bottom part is most likely a diadem with a rectangular buckle in the center. Above this is another band inlaid with gemstones that appears to be a modified turban or cotton formal hat. Above this element is a row of crudely carved garudas, a common decoration of the time, with Amitabha and disciples emerging beyond.
The Bodhisattva’s wavy hair grows from beneath the headdress, giving way to a broad brow. There is an urna over arched eyebrows that meet above the nose, beneath which the mouth is full lipped and expressive.