Toling Monastery: Manjusri Bodhisattva

CHINA, Tibet, Ngari

This copper alloy statue of Manjusri is in Kashmiri style and of Tibetan provenance. Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom stands on a lotus pedestal, wielding the sword of discernment in the right hand. A lotus supporting a Prajnaparamita Sutra winds to shoulder height from the left hand. These attributes indicate that wisdom arises not simply from study but also requires profound reflection. The figure wears a three-leaf crown and the body is draped with a garland of flowers and adorned with jewelry. The figure stands with the upper body inclined towards the right; the right foot is advanced and the weight is on the left foot. The figure is framed by a peach-shaped nimbus and aureole, with a beaded edge and flowery decorations above the nimbus.