While the identity of this figure as the Buddhist deity Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara is without doubt, since the left hand holds a lotus flower, its place of origin is uncertain. Most of its stylistic features relate to other Nepalese examples, such as the treatment of the figure’s ornate crown and garments; however, a few elements indicate that it may have been cast in Tibet in a Newar workshop. The figure’s robust proportions as well as the mechanical rendering of the robe’s cascading pleats are uncharacteristic of Nepalese bronzes. Instead, figural sculptures from Nepal tend to be slender, with pinched waists and flowing garments.
Details
- Title: Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara
- Date: 14th century
- Medium: Gilt copper
- Dimensions: 24 x 8 in. (61 x 20.3 cm)
- Credit Line: The Norton Simon Foundation
- Accession Number: F.1976.05.07.S
- Copyright: © The Norton Simon Foundation
Object Information
- Pal, Pratapaditya, Asian Art at the Norton Simon Museum, Volume 2: Art from the Himalayas & China, 2003, no. 57 pp. 17, 92
- Campbell, Sara, Collector Without Walls: Norton Simon and His Hunt for the Best, 2010, cat. 1342 p. 396
Image reproduction permission may be granted for scholarly or arts related commercial use. All image requests, regardless of their intended purpose, should be submitted via the reproduction request form.
Images may be protected by copyright and other intellectual property rights. Additional permission may be required.
Approved requests for the reproduction of an image will receive a contract detailing all fees and conditions of use of the image. Upon receipt of both the signed contract and full payment, the Office of Rights and Reproductions will provide the image. A complimentary copy of the published material must be provided to the Norton Simon Museum.