Manjuvajra, an Esoteric Manifestation of Manjushri

11th–12th century; base sealed later in Tibet

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

This six-armed esoteric form of Manjushri emerged in Buddhist imagery late in the Pala period; all known images date to the eleventh and tweflth centuries. A visualized form of bodhisattva Manjushri, with three faces and six arms, Manjuvajra is described in the Nishpanna Yogavali (Garland of Perfection Yoga) as providing a path to wisdom and intelligence. The crossed hands at the chest invoke the embrace of his consort, Prajna (wisdom); the display of weapons, the dispelling of ignorance; and the wisom book (pustaka), the path.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Exhibition History

Title: Manjuvajra, an Esoteric Manifestation of Manjushri
Period: Pala period
Date: 11th–12th century; base sealed later in Tibet
Culture: Eastern India, Bihar
Medium: Copper alloy, inlaid with silver and copper
Dimensions: H. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm); W. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm); D. 1 7/8 (4.8 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Lent by a private collection
Curatorial Department: Asian Art