Moon Disc, Many Arms

Viewing notes

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

This polychrome bodhisattva sits in full lotus on a great golden lotus raised high above carved waves. The principal hands are joined at the chest while further arms unfold behind in layers, holding a sword, ritual implements, a small pot and a treasure tray, fanned like a peacock's train. A jewelled crown crowns the calm face; teal gauze and vermilion sashes cross the body, and beaded chains cover chest and knees. Behind the figure spreads an immense pale moon disc, its fine radiating lines rippling outward from the centre, ringed by a full circle of orange-red flame that gathers to a point at the top. Below, lotus buds open among the waves, and two orange-robed attendants stand at either side, one holding a ruyi sceptre. Clear moonlight and bright flame set each other off — a luminous, unhurried centrepiece for a shrine or a principal room.