Himalayan Art Resources

Buddhist Deity: Manjushri (Relaxed Left Arm or Sattva Posture)

Manjushri (Relaxed Left Arm of Sattva Posture) | Manjushri: List of Forms | Iconic & Non-iconic Iconography Main Page

Subjects, Topics & Types:
- Manjushri, Relaxed Left Arm or Sattva Posture Description (below)
- Manjushri (Relaxed Posture)
- Manjushri (Non-iconic)
- Bodhisattva Sculptural Forms (Non-iconic)
- Aniconic Figures (Sutra/Narrative based)
- Iconographic Figures (Tantra based)
- Masterworks
- Confusions
- Others...

Video: Bodhisattva: Three Definitions

These forms of Manjushri are generally non-iconic, or aniconic. They are not typically found described in Tantric texts, meditations or rituals. They are for the most part based on the Sutra literature and narrative stories. The pose with the right hand grasping the sword at the chest is seen in a few other sculptures of Manjushri, primarily Western Himalayan standing figures. The left hand turned with the back of the hand resting on the thigh is reminiscent of a royal pose. The left leg pendant is unusual as it typically signifies a more wrathful or fierce demeanor. The artists appear to be trying to captured the image of Manjushri as a prince with both beauty and strength and in many examples they succeed.

Jeff Watt [updated 8-2018]