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Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara

Southern Thailand

late 8th–early 9th century

Not on view

Eight-armed Avalokiteshvara was a favored type during the eighth century in the peninsula, Sumatra, and central Java. This exemplary casting of the Bodhisattva of Compassion was probably a royal commission. The Ligor inscription, dated 775, records that Dharmasetu, a ruler of Srivijaya, dedicated several temples in the region and installed important cult images within. This work may be associated with his patronage. The iconography of the great bronze from Perak, Malaysia (cat. no. 157), may serve as a guide to the original attributes of this example.

cat. no. 166

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Copper alloy with traces of gilding, Southern Thailand — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Copper alloy with traces of gilding, Southern Thailand

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Copper alloy with traces of gilding, Southern Thailand

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Copper alloy with traces of gilding, Southern Thailand

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara

Date: late 8th–early 9th century

Culture: Southern Thailand

Medium: Copper alloy with traces of gilding

Dimensions: H. 30 1/4 in. (76.7 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok (SV24)

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