Item: Deity - (Unidentified)
| Origin Location | Tibet |
|---|---|
| Date Range | 1400 - 1499 |
| Lineages | Hindu, Bon and Buddhist |
| Size | 20.96cm (8.25in) high |
| Material | Metal, Copper Inlay, Silver Inlay, Painted Face/Hair |
| Collection | Rubin Museum of Art |
| Catalogue # | acc.# F1997.39.6 |
Classification: Deity
Deity Unidentified.
The figure is male with a peaceful expression, four arms and two legs. The upper proper right hand appears to hold a fly whisk. The lower hand is in a gesture of fearlessness. The upper left hand holds an attribute similar to a jewel and the lower hand a flower. The right leg is extended forward in a relaxed posture.
Adorned with a crown, earrings and ornaments, the figure is also decorated with copper and zinc/silver(?) inlay for the eyes, lips, finger nails and jewelry.
It is possible that the figure belongs to the Buddhist or Bon traditions, maybe Hindu. Could it be a form of Manidharin from the retinue of Chaturbhuja Avalokiteshvara? There are no identifiable or typically characteristic attributes with which to make a definitive identification. All guesses are welcome.
Jeff Watt 9-2019
Sculpture: Metal
Subject: Unidentified Deity Figures
Sculpture, Metal: Buddhist Deities
Bon Sculpture Masterworks
Collection of RMA: Selected Sculpture
Collection of RMA: Best of Collection (Sculpture)