Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom

12th century

Not on view

Manjushri and his counterpart, Prajnaparamita, the wisdom goddess, are understood as personifications of awakened knowledge. Both display the palm-leaf manuscript (pustaka) embodying wisdom as their principal identifier, here seen atop the lotus bloom. Manjushri wields a sword as his other attribute, symbolizing the cutting away of all impediments to enlightenment. Here the blade is missing, but the hilt is visible in the projecting hand. He wears a skirt-cloth decorated with registers of flowers secured with a belt from which strings of pearls hang is loops.

Artwork Details

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References

Title: Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom
Date: 12th century
Culture: Tibet
Medium: Brass with traces of gilding and color
Dimensions: H. 10 1/4 in. (26.1 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Roger Stoll, 1983
Object Number: 1983.554.2
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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