Swat: Vajradharma Avalokitesvara

PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Swat

The Bodhisattva is seated in a half lotus position on a double lotus throne. The throne is on an openwork base with column supports interspersed with peacocks. The Bodhisattva’s hair is tied into a topknot and secured behind a headdress fronted with the image of a seated Amitabha Buddha. Though the upper torso is bare, it is adorned with beaded jewelry. The figure is garbed from the hips down in a tight garment that is engraved with floral and diamond-shaped patterns. The left hand of the figure’s four hands is at the front holding a lotus stalk while the right hand supports the flower’s bud. The upper hands hold a bow and arrow.
The Bodhisattva is identified as Vajradharma Lokeshvara, a rare form of Avalokitesvara, by the Amitabha headdress, the bow and arrow, posture, and peacock throne. Some of these characteristics are shared in the portrayal of Manjusri.