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Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons

Southern Thailand

early 9th century

Not on view

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

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons, Copper alloy, Southern Thailand — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons, Copper alloy, Southern Thailand

Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Lokanatha Granting Boons, Copper alloy, 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.

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

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