Bodhisattva Amoghapasa Lokesvara, sculpture, gilt copper, jewelled, pre 16th century, Tibet

Figure of Amoghapasa Lokesvara in gilt copper, jewelled with turquoises, lapis-lazuli and paste gems. Throne of cast brass and the aureole back piece of repoussé and chased brass, jewelled with artificial gems en cabochon. The bodhisattva is depicted in Tantric form, in standing pose with eight arms. Of the eight hands, the first on the right side is held in Vitaka Mudra, the second in mode of blessing, the third holds the snare, and the fourth formerly held the rosary or mala (now missing). On the left side: the lower hand holds a vessel of nectar (life-giving ambrosia), and the second, third and fourth formerly held, respectively, a red lotus, a trident and the book called Prajnaparamita (now missing). The figure stands on a brass throne with jewelled aureole. The throne and aureole are of much later date, probably 18th century.

Purchased from the Baillie Gallery

This is an image of the bodhisattva Amoghapasa Lokesvara. It is a form of the bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, one most important and widely worshipped bodhisattva or saviour figures in Buddhist Nepal and Tibet. Devotees invoke this deity for help with dangerous and difficult situations and this has ensured the long-standing popularity of Lokesvara throughout the Himalayas.

IM.134-1910