Qing Dynasty Manjusri Bodhisattva Tibetan antique Buddha statue Gilt Han style Tibet

The Qing Dynasty-style gilt statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva, following the Han Chinese tradition. The Han Chinese style of Manjushri statues differs significantly from the Tibetan tradition. Manjushri, in the Buddhist world, embodies a dual identity as both a Bodhisattva and a Buddha. According to Buddhist scriptures, Manjushri was born into a Brahmin family in ancient India, in the kingdom of Potala, during the same era as Shakyamuni Buddha. He later became a prominent disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha after renouncing worldly life, earning him the title of the future Buddha.

This Manjushri statue from the early Qing Dynasty is of substantial size, with Manjushri seated atop a tall dais, displaying a robust and upright posture. The proportions of each part are meticulously crafted, showcasing exceptional sculptural skill. Manjushri's hair is tied up in a bun, distinct from the Tibetan style, without wearing a crown. His elongated earlobes are adorned with various types of jewelry, exuding a majestic and regal aura akin to that of an emperor. His facial features are full and rounded, with slightly narrowed eyes, slender eyebrows, a prominent nose bridge, and a graceful curve formed by the eyebrows and nose, giving the statue a particularly handsome appearance.

The expression is serene and gentle, with a subtle hint of a smile, symbolizing inner peace and purity of spirit, demonstrating remarkable realism and vitality. His hands are clasped in front of his chest in the teaching gesture, symbolizing Manjushri's role as a deity delivering teachings in the realm of the gods. The natural and relaxed posture of his legs hanging down in the royal sitting position, known as the auspicious cross-legged posture, is unique to Manjushri.

The entire statue, crafted from bronze, is delicately decorated, with thick layers of gilt on the ornaments and garments, giving it a full and refined appearance. The antique gold color, combined with its majestic, concise, and generous composition, forms the dominant theme, while the overall statue exudes a sense of tranquility amid movement, understated luxury, and extraordinary grace. With its original base and substantial size, it epitomizes opulence and is a particularly special Manjushri statue worthy of collection. This statue comes from the personal collection of an elderly Manchu descendant of the Huangqi Banner.