Head of a Crowned Bodhisattva
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.This crowned, bejeweled head of a Buddhist savior was discovered during the excavation of a stupa at Khu Bua. It was part of an elaborate program depicting Buddhas and bodhisattvas in high relief that extended around the processional platform. The reliefs were originally polychrome and must have been a marvel for seventh-century monks and lay devotees to behold as they performed their circumambulations (pradakshina). This head is rendered with subtle modeling, especially the heavy-lidded eyes that emphasize the downward gaze of compassion. The tiered crown, its diadem fittings overlaid with pendant strings of pearls, is a masterpiece of ornament.
cat. no. 146
cat. no. 146
Artwork Details
- Title: Head of a Crowned Bodhisattva
- Date: first half of the 7th century
- Culture: Western Thailand
- Medium: Terracotta with stucco
- Dimensions: H. 16 1/8 in. (41 cm); W. 11 in. (28 cm); D. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok (677/2511)
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art