Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara

JAPAN; Heian period

The oldest surviving sandalwood sculpture in Japan, possibly dating from the 9th century, this figure is listed as an Important Cultural Property.
Ten heads surmount the circlet that holds the piled hair in place. Their expressions are varied, with one openly laughing separated at the back of the main head. A standing Buddha is affixed to the front of the circlet, from which side-ribands hang down to the shoulders. The figure is depicted with masculine features, including thick eyebrows, a mustache and beard. The Bodhisattva’s right hand is open in varada (wish-granting) mudra while the left hand carries a vase. A stole loops over the skirt and a few traces of another stole are visible on the right arm and base of the pedestal. The figure also wears rich jewelry and a chrysanthemum belt with complex pendants. Additional details have been lost.