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Seated bodhisattva
Seated bodhisattva

Seated bodhisattva

Place of Origin
  • Japan
Date1185-1333
PeriodKamakura period (1185-1333) or later
MaterialsBronze with traces of gilding
DimensionsH. 8 in x W. 4 3/4 in x D. 1 3/8 in, H. 20.3 cm x W. 12.2 cm x 3.5 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB65B50
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
On view
LocationGallery 26
Subject
  • bodhisattva
  • Buddhism
More Information
This sculpture was originally made as a principal image to be mounted on a votive plaque (kakebotoke) made of metal or wood. At Buddhist temples kakebotoke were hung from the eave above the entrance to an image hall, above the rail separating the inner and outer sanctums, or at a shrine for a protector deity. The front half of this image was cast as one piece with its arms made separately. The arms were then attached to the body by means of a tongue-and-groove joint. The bodhisattva forms the hand gesture of consolation (ani-in) and suspends the left hand below the waist with fingers in the gesture of holding a lotus, now lost.