Standing Bodhisattva

THAILAND

The tranquil figure has a large head and an elaborate topknot constructed from large loops of hair. The elongated earlobes extend almost the length of what may have been a neck with three lines. The proportion of the figure and the posture seem unnatural, with arms bent at the elbows and extending out from the body. One leg is in advance of the other, giving the body a leftward twist. The torso is bare and a short skirt is secured at the waist by a knotted cord.
This statuette was probably discovered in Prakhon Chai, Buri Ram, considering its resemblance to other sculptures discovered in that area. The figure is likely to be Avalokitesvara even though damage and corrosion make identification of the Bodhisattva difficult, if it is determined that it was sculpted in Prakhon Chai.