Raised Palm, Held Lotus

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This copper-toned seated figure raises one palm before its chest. The crowned bodhisattva sits in full lotus on a great lotus pedestal, eyes lowered, the left palm lifted to cradle a curving lotus stem whose just-opening bloom holds a small square casket at its heart; the right hand rests low before the belly, lightly steadying the stem — one hand offering, one supporting, the pose open and composed. A fine beaded necklace falls across the chest, and behind rises the tall pointed aureole, carved throughout with flame and cloud scrolls. Beneath the lotus an elephant lies at rest, trunk curled, quietly bearing the whole seat; below stands a railed rectangular platform with scrolling vines and a small figure at each front corner. Order lives within the profusion: enshrined in a hall of worship it is properly solemn; at the principal place of a room it holds the space with ease.