Seated Bodhisattva, Possibly Padmapani

3rd–5th century

Not on view

The seated figure is richly adorned with a collar, a necklace with a central bead, earrings, a cord of amulet cases worn diagonally across the chest, a sacred thread falling loosely over the right arm, and two pairs of bracelets. He holds an inverted lotus, suggesting that he represents either the Bodhisattva Padmapani (Lotus Bearer) or an early form of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. It is unusual for a bodhisattva to be depicted seated in a lotus posture, and thus the precise identity of this figure remains controversial.

Artwork Details

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References

Title: Seated Bodhisattva, Possibly Padmapani
Date: 3rd–5th century
Culture: Pakistan (ancient region of Gandhara)
Medium: Stone
Dimensions: H. 21 1/2 in. (54.6 cm); W. 10 1/2 in. (26.7 cm); D. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1913
Object Number: 13.96.11
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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