Eleven-Headed Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion

10th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 249

Such multi-armed, eleven-headed images of Avalokiteshvara were important to both Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhist practitioners. This kind of representation emphasizes Avalokiteshvara's knowledge as well as his ability to take multiple simultaneous actions on behalf of the devotee.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Provenance

Title: Eleven-Headed Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion
Date: 10th century
Culture: Thailand
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: H. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchase, Margery and Harry Kahn Philanthropic Fund Gift, 1987
Object Number: 1987.146
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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