Khorzhak Monastery Yilhun Hall: Manjusri Bodhisattva Triad

CHINA, Tibet, Ngari

Legend suggests the triad was the work of Nepalese artisans. The standing Bodhisattvas all wear a five-leaf crowns on their rounded heads. The right hand of the central statue of Manjusri Bodhisattva is in varada (wish-granting) mudra, while the left arm curves awkwardly round one of the two lotus stems that stretch upward on both sides. A sword of wisdom tops one of the stems and a sutra case the other. The Bodhisattva is flanked by two attendants. Both attendants have one hand raised in abhaya (fearlessness) mudra and long flower stems rising behind them. The intricate mandorla is carved with images of flowers, birds, elephants, mythical creatures and figures of children. The triad has been repeatedly refurbished and several items were added later, including the five-leaf crowns and decorative semi-precious stones.