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Eleven-headed Avalokiteshvara
Eleven-headed Avalokiteshvara

Eleven-headed Avalokiteshvara

Place of OriginJapan
Dateapprox. 1300-1333
PeriodKamakura period (1185-1333)
CultureJapanese
MaterialsInk and colors on silk
DimensionsH. 60 1/2 in x W. 17 3/4 in, H. 153.5 cm x W. 45.0 cm (image); H. 99 in x W. 24 3/4 in, H. 251.5 cm x W. 62.8 cm (overall)
Credit LineGift and Purchase from the Harry G.C. Packard Collection Charitable Trust in honor of Dr. Shujiro Shimada; The Avery Brundage Collection
Object number1991.56
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on view
More Information
The compassionate bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Japan: Kannon) is shown here in his eleven-headed form, standing on a lotus throne in his mountain-island paradise, Potalaka (Fudarakusan). His multiple heads symbolize the many ways he can assist in relieving humans of suffering, worries, illness, and misfortune. Avalokiteshvara’s right arm extends slightly forward and his hand forms the gift-granting gesture, while his left arm holds a vase of lotuses, one of his standard emblems. Behind his head is a halo from which rays extend in all directions. Below his right foot is the boy pilgrim Sudhana (Zenzai Doji) floating on a lotus-petal boat in the posture of worship as he listens to Avalokiteshvara preaching the doctrine.