Western Tibet, Medieval Period, 10th-12th century, Buddha surrounded by bodhisattvas

Western Tibet, Buddha accompanied by two bodhisattvas

Tibet
Medieval Period, 10th-12th century

The Buddha and the bodhisattvas are represented standing in light tribbanga (triple flexion), leaning against a double mandorla and positioned on lotiform bases, the latter resting on a rectangular base supported by two lions at its end and by an atlas in its center ( all three having silver inlays at eye level).
The Awakened One is represented larger than the two bodhisattvas, dressed in the uttarasanga monastic garment covered with the mantle (samgathi) placed directly on the body. The right arm bent, palm turned outwards in a position of absence of fear (abhaya mudra), the left arm alongside the body, the hand holding its cloth. The face has eyes inlaid with silver, the urna in the middle of the forehead pointed by a copper element, the top of the skull adorned with the protuberance (ushnisha), originally an ascetic bun, the lobes of distended ears.
To the right of the Buddha stands the bodhisattva Padmapâni, emanation of Avalokitesvara, (bodhisattva of compassion). Dressed in a simple dothi draped around the hips adjusted by a belt, a section of fabric passing between the legs. The right arm alongside the body, palm turned towards the listener in a position of absence of fear, the right arm holding a lotus flower blooming at shoulder height. She is adorned with a large necklace, circular drop earrings, her hairstyle elaborated in a high bun, the urna adorning her forehead.
To the left of the Awakened One we find the bodhisattva Vajrapani, protector of Buddhist doctrine. Dressed in monastic habit, right arm folded at chest height, hand holding a vajra, left arm alongside the body, hand resting on the thigh. He is adorned with a necklace as well as large circular earrings, his head crowned with a high tiara, his forehead marked with the urna.

According to tradition, Buddhism was introduced to Tibet in the 7th century by King Sron-bcan sgam-po (around 610-649). Before developing its own iconographic style, Tibet drew its inspiration from the neighboring region of Kashmir, itself heir to the art of Gandhara.
Our piece thus presents Kashmiri influences which can be found in the shape of the lenticular eyes inlaid with silver, as well as influences from Gandhara in the specific treatment of the drapes.

Copper alloy and silver inlays
10.8 x 6.2 cm excluding base
Usual wear

Ref: RFY3YXFL96