Untitled

Unknown

16th century · Wood with pigment · Asian Art

Polychromed wood sculpture from at least the tenth century survives in Nepal, in the form of both independent sculptures and architectural elements. This dancer, likely one of a pair, is a form of a Buddhist savior, a counterpart to such popular bodhisattvas as Avalokiteshvara in the form of Cintamani Lokeshvara, the wish-fulfilling jewel bearer. This goddess gestures with her lower hand, evoking her boon-granting power.

Artist

Unknown

Date

16th century

Medium

Wood with pigment

Culture

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Zimmerman Family Collection, Gift of the Zimmerman Family, 2016