Nandamannya Temple: Bodhisattva

MYANMAR, Mandalay, Bagan; Bagan Empire (circa 849–1287)

Located within a niche along the north wall of Nandamannya Temple, this mural was painted during the Bagan Empire (circa 849–1287). The Bodhisattva has a high topknot and is adorned with a five-leaf crown, a necklace, armlets, bracelets, and other ornaments. Standing elegantly on a round pedestal, the Bodhisattva forms the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra with the left hand and holds a lotus with the right. The nimbus has a beaded edge that is encircled by a ring of dense foliage. Long-stemmed lotuses rise up from the bottom of the picture and fill the background behind the figure. The borders are decorated with scrolling patterns. The simple yet striking coloring, fine details, and decorative background make this an exemplary piece of Bagan Empire art.