Untitled

Unknown

late 13th century · Distemper on wood · Asian Art

Paintings on the interiors of book covers consecrate and protect the sacred texts within. The deity Manjuvajra is an esoteric expression of the wisdom bodhisattva Manjushri and is seen here in a sexual embrace with one of the wisdom goddesses, or Vidyadharas. They wield identical weapons to drive away impediments to spiritual awakening. Meditations on Manjuvajra serve to enhance understanding and intelligence, necessary tools on the path to wisdom and enlightenment.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 13th century

Medium

Distemper on wood

Culture

Tibet

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Harris Brisbane Dick Fund and Louis V. Bell Fund, 1998