Seated Lokeśvara

This exquisite and rare figure exhibits the elegance of 8th-century sculptures from the region of Kashmir. Lokesvara, a form of the peaceful bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, rests in a posture of ease (lalitasana), with one leg hanging down and the other folded. Characteristic of the Kashmiri style, this sculpture is decorated with inlaid silver and copper to accentuate the eyes, lips, and nipples. This representation of Lokesvara differs from others by including noticeably wrathful aspects, such as the two bearded flanking faces and the vajra weapon held in one hand. Uniquely, this figure also exhibits the horse’s head normally associated with Hayagriva (Horse-throated One). Here, however, “horse-throated” refers to Lokesvara’s own loud and frightening voice. A miniature figure seated on the front of the crown reveals Lokesvara as an emanation of the buddha Amitabha.