Kathmandu: Seven-Headed, Twelve-Armed Manjusri Bodhisattva

NEPAL, Kathmandu

The sculpture was discovered at Kathmandu. This statue, in which the Bodhisattva is portrayed with seven heads and twelve arms, is the most popular representation of Manjusri in Nepal. Two pairs of heads looking sideways are on each side of the main head, with two more above. Eight of the arms are held out symmetrically on either side of the body and hold a variety of symbolic attributes. The two main arms are raised to the chest in Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra while a lower right hand is held out over the knee in varada (wish-granting) mudra. The sword of wisdom signifies the realization of transcendent wisdom which cuts down ignorance and duality, while the sutra scroll represents the attainment of ultimate realization from wisdom. The figure sits in full lotus position on a throne decorated with Dharma wheels at the base. Numerous pieces of jewelry decorate the upper body and arms. A buoyant stole billows from behind the shoulders to wrap the two principal arms and twine to the edges of the encircling aureole. The aureole intersects with a circular nimbus edged with flames.