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Large bronze and cloisonné enamel group depicting Manjusri
Japan
19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)
Important bronze group depicting the boddhisattva Manjusri in his Japanese form Manju bosatsu. He is shown perched on a Buddhist lion, seated in the ardhaparyanka (royal relaxation) position, with a long stole resting on his shoulders, wrapped around his forearms and extending to his feet. Dressed in a loose-fitting, open-chested tunic, he is adorned with a large pectoral, arm and wrist bracelets, earrings and a diadem. The hair falls in broad locks to the shoulders, the face is serene, the left hand resting on the thigh, the right hand holding the Buddhist scepter (nyoi).
The lion, mouth open and fangs visible, its tail swirled in wide, swirling curls and tufts of hair in broad, undulating locks. This threatening attitude is intended to protect Buddhist doctrine and ward off evil spirits.
In the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, bodhisattvas are spiritual beings moved by compassion for all suffering creatures. Bodhisattvas vow not to attain supreme enlightenment as long as there is a single being to save.
Manjusri is the bodhisattva of wisdom and enlightened mind, personification of the Buddha's teachings.
Bronze and cloisonné enamel
47.5 x 44.5 cm
Minor casting defects, wear
Private collection
Ref: GILSX6KFX3