Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara

JAPAN; Heian period

This 12th century artwork is the only existing painting of Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva from the Heian period (794–1185). It was listed as a National Treasure in 1994. Avalokitesvara has three rows of heads above the central face. The head of a Buddha is in the top row. With body turned slightly to one side, Avalokitesvara sits on raised lotus throne. The Bodhisattva is adorned with ornaments. The right hand forms the varada (wish-granting) mudra, and a string of prayer beads hangs from the wrist. A vase containing red lotus flowers is held against the chest by the left hand. The outer layer of the nimbus and the mandorla have no sharply defined border, creating an interesting hazy effect. A canopy decorated with floral patterns and ornaments hangs in the upper register. A red cloth with gold patterning is draped over the front of the lotus throne. Avalokitesvara’s pink skin stands out from the dark background. The aureole and the Sumeru throne are both accented with turtle shell patterns drawn with gold lines.