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Sadaksari-Lokeshvara Surrounded by Manifestations and Monks

late 15th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 253
This painting represents the “six-syllables form” of Avalokiteshvara, evoking the mantra om mani padme hum. As expounded by the fourteenth Dalai Lama, om denotes the impurities that impede spiritual awareness; mani (jewel) symbolizes the pathway lit by compassion; padme (lotus) defines the tool, wisdom; and hum the indivisible union of wisdom and method—so achieving the purity of body, speech, and mind of Buddhahood. This fundamental teaching is given expression in the purity of this representation of the highest embodiment of compassion. The Dalai Lama is understood to be an incarnation of this form of Avalokiteshvara. Conventionally represented in white, Sadaksari-Lokeshvara is gold here, the most radiant of colors. Surrounding him are bodhisattvas, an array of protectors, and a lineage of monks.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Sadaksari-Lokeshvara Surrounded by Manifestations and Monks
  • Date: late 15th century
  • Culture: Tibet
  • Medium: Distemper, gold and ink on cloth
  • Dimensions: Image: 40 3/8 x 31 1/4 in. (102.6 x 79.4 cm)
    Framed: 51 3/8 x 41 9/16 in. (130.5 x 105.6 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Gift of Margery and Harry Kahn, 1985
  • Object Number: 1985.390.3
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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