Khasarpana Avalokiteshvara

Currently not on view

Khasarpana Avalokiteshvara

12th century

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

This master carving from Odisha (formerly Orissa) in the far eastern part of India depicts the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, the embodiment of infinite compassion, in his form as Khasarpana. In keeping with Buddhist texts, he sits with one leg folded, the other hanging down and supported by a lotus footstool. In his unending mercy, Avalokiteshvara drips nectar from his right hand, lowered in the boon-giving gesture, into the beak-like mouth of the tiny demon Suchimukha (literally “needle-mouth”). The other hand, now broken, formerly clasped the stem of a lotus. The triangular face, sinuous body, and crisp carving are typical of images from Odisha.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Khasarpana Avalokiteshvara

Date:

12th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Medium:

Schist

Dimensions:

31 3/4 x 15 1/2 x 9 inches (80.6 x 39.4 x 22.9 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

Purchased with the Joseph E. Temple Fund, 1941

Accession Number:

1941-23-1

Geography:

Made in Odisha, India, Asia Possibly made in Chauduar, Odisha, India, Asia

Context:

Period: Medieval Period (c. 600 - c. 1300)

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Currently not on view