A Gilt Bronze Figure of Manjushri

TIBETO-CHINESE, YONGLE MARK AND PERIOD (1403-25)

Details

A Gilt Bronze Figure of Manjushri
Tibeto-Chinese, Yongle Mark and Period (1403-25)
Seated in dhyanasana on a double-lotus base with his right hand raised brandishing a sword, his left hand raised in varada mudra holding a lotus flower supporting the book, wearing a long flowing dhoti gathered in folds around his feet and an elaborate belt and necklace with beaded festoons, his head slightly tilted in a serene expression with finely detailed foliate tiara, incised six-character Yongle mark at front of base
10 in. (25.4 cm.) high

Lot Essay

While the Yongle bronzes generally conform to clearly defined prototypes, it is interesting to note that there is considerable variety in the depictions of Manjushri. The present example shows a rare form with the deity holding the book in his left hand, while it is generally supported on a lotus stem.

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