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Manjuvajra Mandala

late 12th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Manjuvajra is a tantric form of the bodhisattva Manjushri and is evoked to understand subtle aspects of Buddhist texts and practice. Here, he sits with his consort Prajna in accordance with the Nishpanna Yogavali (Garland of Perfected Yoga). There is a row of goddesses at the base. Replacing a monastic lineage at the top are multiple forms of Manjushri, emphasizing the mandala’s function of providing access to Buddhist knowledge. The refined, intricate details and volumetric treatment of the figures and numerous motifs indicate a Nepali artisan working for a Tibetan patron. Some of these motifs relate to late twelfth-century manuscript covers from Nepal, suggesting that this work was also produced in this period.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Manjuvajra Mandala
  • Date: late 12th century
  • Culture: Tibet
  • Medium: Distemper and gold on cotton
  • Dimensions: Image: H. 40 in. (101.6 cm); W. 30 in. (76.2 cm);
    Framed: H. 52 in. (132.1 cm); W. 43 in. (109.2 cm); Est. wt. 66.5 lbs. (30.2 kg)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Lent by The Kronos Collections
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art