Manjushri – Statue with Filigree

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 exchange. Manjushri wears the crown and full adornment of a Bodhisattva.

Robe and lotus pedestal are decorated with fine filigree ornaments. Spirals formed from thin wire are filled with small arched elements and arranged into a continuous pattern. The filigree is accented with colored stones. At the center of the pedestal, a Dzi bead is set, regarded as a traditional protective and symbolic object. A band of set red stones runs along the lower edge of the pedestal.

This Manjushri statue follows established iconographic conventions.

Manjushri 

Statue made of copper, traditional lost-wax casting, adorned with fine filigree, gold- and silver-plated, set with colored stones. The figure is patinated. The face is set in gold. Handcrafted in Nepal.
 

• Height: 22 cm
• Width: 18 cm
• Depth: 11 cm
• Weight: 1.568 g

NOTE
The face painting is a cold gold application and water-soluble.