(SOLD) Gold Plated Manjushri Statue, God of Divine Wisdom 14" Item #2n3

This graceful sculpture depicts Manjushri, one of the three central Bodhisattvas in the Buddhist pantheon, seated in a relaxed posture known as the 'rajalila asana' or the posture of 'kingly ease' upon a single lotus base. Another bodhisattva who assumed an independent stature from early times, Manjushri symbolizes wisdom, as Avalokiteshvara does compassion. Since wisdom is a greatly honoured quality in Buddhism, Manjushri's position in the pantheon is among the highest.

Manjushri is identified by three primary attributes: a sword he wields to cut through ignorance, a book (the Sutra of Transcendent Wisdom, the Prajnaparamita) and a lotus flower. Meandering across Manjusri's torso is a double-stranded meditation cord symbolizing purity, it marks his status as a member of the Brahmin caste. He is seated in sharanagamana mudra or teaching gesture.

Beautifully cast, the sculpture exhibits the full fleshy cheeks, large inlaid eyes and elongated proportions that are typical of the region. In fact, portable statues from Nepal were dispersed throughout Tibet, China and Central Asia, and their influence upon works from these regions was profound.

This copper Manjushri statue is gold plated and inlaid with rubies and other semi-precious stones.

This sculpture was handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan who are considered among the best in the world. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for use in temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.

This sculpture was handcrafted by the very talented artists of Nepal.