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Lot Essay
The present figure is seated in lalitasana on a double-lotus base, with his right hand lowered in varada mudra (gesture of dispensing boons) and his left holding the stem of a blossoming lotus flower. His benevolent expression is enhanced with silver-inlaid eyes and surmounted by an elaborate topknot of dreadlocks (jatas). His upper body is adorned with jewelled necklace, armlets, bracelets and lower body is dressed in a dhoti. The yajnopavita (sacred thread) is placed on the left shoulder and falls over the right leg.
It is characteristic of Northeastern Indian statue to highlight the crown, urna laksana, eyes and necklaces with silver and the lips with copper. The floral pattern of the robe on the present figure is similarly inlaid with silver and copper, showcasing the intricate artistry characteristic of the region.
Padmapani is a form of Avalokiteshvara, one of the most revered bodhisattva in Buddhism. The image of Padmapani frequently appears throughout India, from the Ellora and Kanheri caves to the renowned site of Sarnath. In Tibet, the veneration of Padmapani is particularly profound; Srong btsan sgam po (617-650), founder of the Tibetan Empire, as well as the Dalai Lama, are both considered incarnations of Padmapani. Padmapani is believed to reside on Mount Potala, which inspired the naming of Potala Palace in Lhasa. This connection highlights the deep-rooted faith in Padmapani in Tibet, where the deity has become the patron of this region.
Compare to a similar silver-inlaid bronze figure of Padmapani that was sold at Christie’s New York, 11 September 2019, lot 326.
It is characteristic of Northeastern Indian statue to highlight the crown, urna laksana, eyes and necklaces with silver and the lips with copper. The floral pattern of the robe on the present figure is similarly inlaid with silver and copper, showcasing the intricate artistry characteristic of the region.
Padmapani is a form of Avalokiteshvara, one of the most revered bodhisattva in Buddhism. The image of Padmapani frequently appears throughout India, from the Ellora and Kanheri caves to the renowned site of Sarnath. In Tibet, the veneration of Padmapani is particularly profound; Srong btsan sgam po (617-650), founder of the Tibetan Empire, as well as the Dalai Lama, are both considered incarnations of Padmapani. Padmapani is believed to reside on Mount Potala, which inspired the naming of Potala Palace in Lhasa. This connection highlights the deep-rooted faith in Padmapani in Tibet, where the deity has become the patron of this region.
Compare to a similar silver-inlaid bronze figure of Padmapani that was sold at Christie’s New York, 11 September 2019, lot 326.