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Interior of a Manuscript Cover: Manjuvajra Embracing His Consort, with Attendant Lamas

late 13th century
Not on view
Paintings on the interiors of book covers consecrate and protect the sacred texts within. The deity Manjuvajra is an esoteric expression of the wisdom bodhisattva Manjushri and is seen here in a sexual embrace with one of the wisdom goddesses, or Vidyadharas. They wield identical weapons to drive away impediments to spiritual awakening. Meditations on Manjuvajra serve to enhance understanding and intelligence, necessary tools on the path to wisdom and enlightenment.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Interior of a Manuscript Cover: Manjuvajra Embracing His Consort, with Attendant Lamas
  • Date: late 13th century
  • Culture: Tibet
  • Medium: Distemper on wood
  • Dimensions: 16 3/4 x 5 5/8 in. (42.5 x 14.3 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund and Louis V. Bell Fund, 1998
  • Object Number: 1998.75
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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