Artwork Page for Manjushri

Details / Information for Manjushri

Manjushri

文殊菩薩

c. 1500–1550

China, Ming dynasty

(1368–1644)
Medium
Hanging scroll, ink, color and gold on silk
Measurements
Painting: 124.8 x 107.3 cm (49 1/8 x 42 1/4 in.); Overall: 314.2 x 111.2 cm (123 11/16 x 43 3/4 in.); Overall with knobs: 314.2 x 122.8 cm (123 11/16 x 48 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Mr. and Mrs. William H. Marlatt Fund 1989.67
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
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Did You Know?

The book on the lotus by the figure's left shoulder identifies him as Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom.

Description

A Chinese artist's interpretation of an Indo-Nepalese throne surrounds the white figure of Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom. Chinese textiles and jewels drape fluidly over the body, the red lower garment offering a contrast to the abundance of malachite green that dominates the composition. Swirling clouds of variegated hues around the periphery add to the mystical, almost magical mood of this iconic figure. His hands are in the gesture of imparting the Buddhist teachings, while his posture and expression reveal that wisdom can be perceived through the practice of yogic meditation.
A vertical ink and color painting on silk depicts the bodhisattva Manjushri, a figure with light skin tone seated cross-legged on an ornate tiered throne. Manjushri wears a golden crown and jewelry, hands joined in prayer. A vibrant multi-layered arch frames the figure, flanked by blue lions and white elephants. Above, a red-winged Garuda sits between two attendants. The green background features intricate gold scrollwork and swirling pink and green clouds.

Manjushri

c. 1500–1550

China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)

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