Standing Bodhisattva

NEPAL

This statue displays the sculptural style from early Licchavi Kingdom (circa 300–879). The Bodhisattva stands on a double lotus pedestal with a lotus bud growing up beside the outstretched foot. This stance causes the body to sway slightly to the left. The high three-leaf crown encircles a topknot almost equally high, from which stray locks of hair fall to the shoulders. A hollow nimbus embellished with flames encircles the head. Large floral earrings, a collar necklace and, most notably, snake armlets are included in the Bodhisattva’s jewelry. A sacred thread crosses the body diagonally and intersects with the sash tied across the thighs. This encloses a belted skirt that is all but transparent except for the ruffled fall of fabric between the legs. The left hand rests on the sash-tie while the right hand is held downwards in varada (wish-granting) mudra.