The Bodhisattva Monju (Manjushri) with Eight Topknots

late 13th century

Not on view

This miniature sculpture represents a distinctive form of the bodhisattva Monju, who personifies Buddhist wisdom. This iteration of the deity shows him with his hair coiffed into eight knots, corresponding to the number of syllables in a corresponding incantation. It probably once formed part of a decorative program for the mandorla (aureole) of a much larger sculpture.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

八髻文殊菩薩坐像
Title: The Bodhisattva Monju (Manjushri) with Eight Topknots
Period: Kamakura Period (1185–1333)
Date: late 13th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Gilt bronze
Dimensions: H. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm); W. 5 in. (12.7 cm); D. 3 in. (7.6 cm); D. (including tangs on the back) 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Sue Cassidy Clark, in honor of Barbara Brennan Ford, 2019
Object Number: 2019.418.1
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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