2-734-631 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Manjushri, c. 1500-1550. A Chinese artist's interpretation of an Indo- Nepalese throne surrounds the white figure of Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom, who is identifiable by the book on the lotus by his left shoulder. Chinese textiles and jewels drape fluidly over the body, the red lower garment offering a contrast to the abundance of malachite green that dominates the composition. Swirling clouds of variegated hues around the periphery add to the mystical, almost magical mood of this iconic figure. His hands are in the gesture of imparting the Buddhist teachings, while his posture and expression reveal that wisdom can be perceived through the practice of yogic meditation.