Manjushri Bodhisattva Filigree Statue

Manjushri is one of the central Bodhisattvas of Mahayana Buddhism and is regarded as the embodiment of wisdom and insight. In the tradition of the Kathmandu Valley, he holds a special position and is closely connected to the region’s foundational myths.

The statue depicts Manjushri seated in the lotus posture, padma asana, on a lotus pedestal. His right arm is raised, holding the flaming sword of wisdom, symbolically cutting through the veil of ignorance. Over his left shoulder, the book of transcendent wisdom, the Prajnaparamita, is visible resting on a lotus blossom. His left hand is held before the chest in vitarka mudra, the gesture of teaching and intellectual discourse. Manjushri wears the crown and full adornment of a Bodhisattva.

Face and body are carved from lapislazuli. The deep blue of the stone creates a clear, calm contrast to the fire-gilding. Robe and lotus pedestal are decorated with fine filigree patterns. Spirals formed from thin wire fill the ornamental surfaces; they are composed of small arched elements and arranged into a continuous pattern. Turquoise, coral, and lapislazuli add subtle color accents.

This Manjushri statue follows the established iconography of Buddhist art and combines symbolic clarity with a calm and balanced overall presence.

Manjushri

Statue made of copper, traditional lost-wax cast, the face, abdomen, forearms, and feet are carved from lapis lazuli and fitted into the metal body, adorned with silver- and gold-plated filigree, set turquoise, coral, and lapis lazuli. The figure is fire-gilded. The statue is patinated. Handmade in Nepal.

• Height: 8.4" / 21.5 cm
• Width: 7.4" / 19 cm
• Depth: 4.1" / 10.5 cm
• Weight: 1,652 g