Avalokiteshvara as Shadakshari Lokeshvara
Woven in a single color, this temple hanging represents Shadakshari Lokeshvara, a four-armed variant of the bodhisattva of compassion (Avalokiteshvara). Parallel to the gilt bronze images made in the imperial workshop of the Ming dynasty, the bodhisattva sits on a tiered throne and is adorned with exquisite jewelry and an elaborate mandorla. The bodhisattva personifies the six-character Sanskrit invocation om mani padme hum (hail to the jewel in the lotus), which is woven at the top of the hanging beneath the seed syllable hrih.
Artwork Details
- 明永樂 暗花綾織觀音
- Title: Avalokiteshvara as Shadakshari Lokeshvara
- Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Date: early 15th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Silk twill damask
- Dimensions: Overall: 101 x 51 1/2 in. (256.5 x 130.8 cm)
- Classification: Textiles-Woven
- Credit Line: Purchase, Sir Joseph Hotung Gift, 2002
- Object Number: 2002.271
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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