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The Bodhisattva Vajrapani

ca. 7th century

Not on view

This vajra-holding deity lowers his right hand to offer boons and salvation (varada mudra). Interestingly, Vajrapani is the only bodhisattva mentioned in the seminal text of the Prajnaparamita Sutra. Based on the presence of the high crown, it appears that during this period in Nepal Vajrapani was conflated with Indra, the god of thunder. Stylistically, this Nepalese sculpture draws on works being cast at the great north Indian Buddhist pilgrimage sites at this time.

On view from March 27, 2021–October 30, 2022

The Bodhisattva Vajrapani, Copper alloy with silver inlay, Nepal — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: The Bodhisattva Vajrapani

Period: Licchavi period (ca. 450–ca. 750)

Date: ca. 7th century

Culture: Nepal

Medium: Copper alloy with silver inlay

Dimensions: H. 8 1/16 in. (20.5 cm)

Classification: Metalwork

Credit Line: Lent by The Kronos Collections

Accession Number: MDH.068

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Asian Art at The Met

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world.