Ritual image of "Avalokiteshvara" ("Padmapani"), late 19th to early 20th century ·  Tibet / Nepal · ID: 3052859

Description

metal, gemstones, bone, brass wire,

The depicted “Bodhisattva” is identified as “Avalokiteshvara”, known in Tibet as “Chenrezig”. This identification is supported by the originally white body colour and the lotus blossom on the pedestal, both of which emphasize his pure and compassionate nature.

He is shown crowned and adorned with sevenfold jewellery as well as a red prayer bead necklace. One hand forms the “varada-mudrā”, the gesture of giving and wish-granting, while the other performs a gesture of blessing.

Four protective heads set in the corners, crafted from red gemstones and accompanied by floral motifs and filigree decorations in fine brass wire, function as protective iconography and structure the framing of the figure.