This small brass sculpture depicts Avalokiteshvara, one of a pantheon of deities who emerged in a form of Buddhism called Mahayana. You can recognize him by the small image of the Buddha that appears in his hair, and the lotus flower he carries in his left hand. This image of Avalokitesvara typifies the highly refined style found in Kashmir and the Swat valley. It retains some of the naturalism found in the Buddhist art of the Gandharan region. For example, the subtly articulated torso and limbs. While at the same time, the figure integrates the canons of perfection and ideas of introspection that characterize the Gupta style. You can see this in the figure’s soft and abstract features, as well as in the gesture of his hand, which points inward.

In Mahayana Buddhism, bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who forego nirvana to help others reach enlightenment. Avalokiteshvara—the bodhisattva of infinite compassion—is particularly important. He serves as both as a protector—rescuing those in need—and as an enlightened being who is accessible to the common devotee. This sculpture’s harmony and balance powerfully convey the deity’s reassuring presence.

To learn more about Mahayana Buddhism, press play.