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Ajaya Avalokitesvara
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Ajaya Avalokitesvara
CHINA; Song dynasty (960–1279); Gilt bronze; H: 28.5 cm; Victoria and Albert Museum, London, United Kingdom
This type of figure is known as Ajaya Avalokitesvara or All-Conquering Avalokitesvara according to the Illustrated History of the Nanzhao Kingdom. It was popular during the time of the Dali Kingdom (937-1253). An Indian monk teaching Dharma to the local people in the region of Erhai, Yunnan, was believed to a manifestation of Ajaya Avalokitesvara.
The sculpture has a high topknot secured by a headdress that includes a seated Buddha. Hair falls to the shoulders and piles about the elongated earlobes. The body is stylistically thin and adorned with jewelry. A long skirt hugs the legs and is knotted with a sash at the waist. The statue is of mixed style, combining influences from India, Nepal, Tibet, and Myanmar. |
