Antique Indonesian Style Javanese Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva Statue - 22cm/9"

Measures (Height) 22cm/9"

An Indonesian Javanese style Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva. The Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion.

Avalokiteshvara is the earthly manifestation of the self-born eternal Buddha Amitabha. He guards the world in the interval between the departure of the historical Buddha, Gautama, and the appearance of the future buddha, Maitreya. Bodhisattva are beings who have gained enlightenment but postpone their ascension to nirvana to help others achieve the blessed state.

This fabulous sculpture depicts Lord Avalokiteshvara seated on a double lotus leaf pedestal, which is itself set up a simple pedestal. His right hand is held a gesture of granting of boon. He is left in the Dharmachakra or Teaching gesture. 

Avalokiteshvara has a lovely malachite patina. His eyes are downcast, his compassionate face bestowing peace, blessings and inner serenity on his devotees. In his left hand the stem of a lotus flower is held, which extends above his shoulder. The lotus flower represents purity, compassion and the giving of great joy to all. Her right hand is held in a gesture of teaching. 

Upon his head he wears a decorative Javanese style tiara in front of his Kirita-Makuta or tall conical crown. This symbolises control over Positive and Negative attitudes. In his elaborate crown is an image of the Buddha Amitabha.

A circular aureole can be seen behind his head, symbolizing is divinity. 

Scholarly Reference:

New York Metropolitan Museum Collection - Accession Number: 2004.259

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