Standing Bodhisattva

CHINA; Tang dynasty

The Bodhisattva stands with bare feet on a lotus pedestal supported by a hollow rectangular stand. The head is framed by an openwork three-piece nimbus consisting of a petaled inner form, surrounded by a vine-like pattern with flames around the rim. The figure looks slightly downwards with lowered eyes, the face absorbed in contemplation. The Bodhisattva holds a loosely hanging whisk in the right hand, and a tilted vase in the lowered left hand. The figure wears a stole around the broad shoulders that swirls dramatically downwards to the pedestal. This piece of work is considered an outstanding example among gilt bronze sculptures of Tang dynasty (618–907).