Bodhisattva, most probably Avalokitesvara

Northeast India, region of Bihar

Pala period, 10th–11th century

Black basalt

H36xW29cm

Provenance: Acquired in the 1970s by M.G., then director of the Alliance Française in Cambodia

Mounted on a modern custom-designed base in metal

Finely carved in dense black basalt this bust portrays a youthful bodhisattva, most probably Avalokitesvara, with both hands before the chest in anjali- mudra, the gesture of reverence.  He gently holds a small cintāmaṇi, wish-granting jewel, between the palms.

The face is softly rounded with downcast almond-shaped eyes, a subtle smile, and an urna on the forehead, hallmark of inner wisdom. The nose shows minor losses at the tip.

The hair is arranged in an elaborate jaṭā--mukuta, with thick curled locks radiating around the head and cascading in tiered rows on the shoulders. A diadem with beaded and foliate motifs crowns his head.

At the front of the headdress a small, coiled serpent (nāga) emerges, to symbolize auspicious protection.

The bodhisattva wears layered necklaces, armbands, bracelets, large earrings and a sacred thread (yajnopavita).  Delicate incised lines imitate the fall of a light cloth across the shoulders and upper arms. The torso, the hairline, the hands, fingers and ornaments are modelled with precise incision.

The reverse is fully worked with the same locks articulated in rounded strands. This confirms that the sculpture was conceived in the round.  

Avalokitesvara’s presence here without the lotus but in anjali-mudra may indicate a specific devotional context — possibly as an attendant or worshipping figure, venerating the Buddha and offering the jewel of compassion to all beings. The nāga rising from the headdress acts as protector.