Head of a Bodhisattva

6th–7th century

Not on view

The delicate modeling of the hair and face provide a sense of the sophisticated sculptural production at Rawak. Early photographs show that this bodhisattva originally had an elaborate topknot, suggestive of the figure of the future Buddha Maitreya. This bodhisattva also had flowers in his hair, earrings, and an elaborate halo embellished with multiple Buddha images (similar to 30.32.33 and 30.32.44). The use of unfired red clay is a technical feature shared with late Afghan Buddhist imagery.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Head of a Bodhisattva
Period: Khotan Kingdom
Date: 6th–7th century
Culture: China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region)
Medium: Red clay with traces of color
Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 5 in. (22.9 x 15.2 x 12.7 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1930
Object Number: 30.32.4
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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