Manjushri statue carved from lapis lazuli

Manjushri is one of the three most significant Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism, alongside Avalokiteshvara and Vajrapani. His main goal is to overcome the ignorance of sentient beings and help them achieve wisdom. Manjushri is invoked in the morning to drive away the demons of ignorance and bring light and clarity through his flaming sword. Therefore, he is also revered as the Bodhisattva of wisdom and learning. Manjushri plays an important role in the founding myth of the Kathmandu Valley.

In this typical representation, Manjushri sits on a lotus pedestal, his legs are in the fully closed lotus posture, Padma Asana. His right arm is raised to shoulder height, and in his hand, he holds a flaming sword, which symbolically represents the ability to cut through the veil of ignorance. Over his left shoulder, he carries the book of transcendent wisdom, the Prajnaparamita, resting on a lotus blossom. His left arm is slightly bent in front of his chest, his hand in Vitarka Mudra – the gesture that embodies teaching discussion and explanation. Manjushri wears the five-pointed crown and the full adornment of a Bodhisattva, highlighting his exalted and enlightened nature.

The statue of Manjushri is fire-gilded, giving it a majestic shine. The body and face are carved from lapis lazuli and precisely set into the metallic base. The deep blue of the lapis lazuli stone provides a beautiful contrast to the gilding. The lotus pedestal and the robe are artistically adorned with fine, silver-plated filigree elements arranged in spiral patterns and accented with colored stones. The base is finished with a border of turquoise, coral, and lapis lazuli.
 

This exquisite statue is an impressive work of art, a beautiful addition to your collection of Asian art. At the same time, it is also a powerful inspiration that encourages the viewer to embark on the path to wisdom and learning.

Manjushri

Statue made of copper, cast using the traditional lost-wax process, the face, abdomen, forearms, and feet are carved from lapis lazuli and fitted into the metal body, his robe and the lotus pedestal are adorned with filigree, silver-plated and gilded, decorated with set turquoise, coral, and lapis lazuli. The figure is fire-gilded, patinated for an antique finish. Handmade in Nepal.

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