Copper repousse and fire-gilded bronze. Tibet, 18th to early 19th cent.
The bodhisattva and also deity Prajnaparamita („perfected (transcendent) wisdom“) seated in padmasana (lotus seat) on a lotus pedestal, just as distinctive in form as the entire depiction is in quality and appearance. The position of the hands shows the „mudra of discussion“, while fingers on the upper hand also show the gesture expelling demons. The hands are separately cast and applied. Gilded necklace across the chest, decorative bands and a large ornament, also around the arms. Long bundles of hair flow down from the head surmounted by a markedly large chignon that is bound together by two gilded rings. The face bears a very individual radiance, particularly the charismatic eyes. This bodhisattva, whose depiction is rather rare, has a very discretely formed feminine breast. The figure itself is composed of two parts adjoining at the waist. One attribute as well as parts of the heavenly garland are missing, dented on the back of the head, seal on the bottom (not original to the statue). Otherwise good condition and above all, an outstanding overall effect. HEIGHT 35,2 CM
From an old Polish collection