Museum-Quality Manjushri Statue: Antique Finish on Copper
This week, Termatree presents a magnificent Manjushri statue inspired by the celebrated 13th-century sculpture The Bodhisattva Monju Riding His Lion, Accompanied by Followers, preserved in the collection of the Tokyo National Museum in Japan. The original was created in 1273 during the Kamakura period by the renowned sculptor Kōen, and is recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Our Nepalese interpretation translates the grandeur of this historic masterpiece into a monumental 30-inch handcrafted copper statue, created using the traditional lost-wax casting process. Finished with an antique patina, the sculpture captures Manjushri seated majestically upon a lion, surrounded by an elaborate radiant halo adorned with intricate floral motifs and attendant figures.
Iconography of the Statue
At the center is Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom, seated gracefully upon the lion. His raised right hand holds the flaming sword of wisdom, symbolizing the sharp discernment that cuts through ignorance and delusion. In his left hand, he holds an utpala lotus, upon which the sacred scripture of wisdom is traditionally placed.
Behind Manjushri rises an elaborate radiant halo, intricately decorated with scrolling floral designs and celestial figures. The richly ornamented halo creates a sense of movement and luminosity around the central figure while emphasizing his elevated spiritual presence.
The majestic lion beneath Manjushri represents the fearless power of wisdom and the confident proclamation of the Dharma. Together, the lion, sword, lotus, and radiant halo create a powerful visual expression of enlightened knowledge and spiritual courage.
A Himalayan Interpretation of a Japanese Masterpiece
While inspired by the historic sculpture preserved at the Tokyo National Museum, this Termatree interpretation reflects the distinctive artistic tradition of Nepalese Buddhist sculpture. The original Japanese work was carved in wood and dates to 1273, whereas our statue has been meticulously crafted in Nepal using lost-wax casting and copper, followed by an antique finish.
This thoughtful combination of historical inspiration and Himalayan craftsmanship makes the statue particularly compelling for collectors who appreciate the connection between Buddhist art, cultural heritage, and traditional sculpture.
Specifications
- Deity: Manjushri
- Height: 30 in / 76.5 cm
- Base: 20.1 in / 51 cm
- Weight: 25.12 kg
- Material: Copper Body
- Finish: Antique Finish
- Craftsmanship: Lost-wax casting, handcrafted in Nepal
- Inspiration: The Bodhisattva Monju Riding His Lion, Accompanied by Followers, Tokyo National Museum
- Original Artist: Kōen
- Original Date: 1273, Kamakura period
Statue of the Week: Manjushri Inspired by the Tokyo National Museum Masterpiece — a remarkable meeting of 13th-century Japanese Buddhist sculpture and contemporary Himalayan craftsmanship.
