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Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons

early 9th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
In the Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita Sutra, Avalokiteshvara is widely evoked as Lokanatha, “Lord of the universe, he who protects the world.” Here he holds a lotus bud in his raised hand, while his lower hand dispenses boons. Over his waistcloth is a tiger-skin hip-wrap, typical of these images. This work and related sculptures on view in this gallery show an awareness of Indian artistic production in Bihar (as at Kurkihar and Nalanda monasteries) and in Bengal during the eighth and ninth centuries. The Bengali legacy is perhaps most evident in the distinctive conical headdress.

cat. no. 167

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons
  • Date: early 9th century
  • Culture: Southern Thailand
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 14 3/16 in. (36 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art