The bodhisattva Manjushri

Indonesia, Central Java, 9th century, volcanic stone (andesite)

Manjushri was venerated in China as one of the first advocates of Buddhism. On Java, he was represented as a young man with bejewelled straps across his chest. This figure’s missing hands may once have made the gesture of turning the wheel of doctrine (dharmacakra mudra): this symbolizes the beginning of the cycle of Buddhist doctrine and enlightenment.

  • Artwork typefigure, sculpture, Manjushri
  • Object numberAK-MAK-240
  • Dimensionsheight 138 cm x width 90 cm x depth 60 cm x weight 663 kg
  • Physical characteristicsvulkanisch gesteente (andesiet)