Lotus and Scroll

Viewing notes

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

This dark-toned bodhisattva stands on a deep red lotus pedestal. Her ornate crown holds a small seated figure at its centre, and her golden face looks down in a gentle smile. In her right hand she holds a tall lotus stem whose dark leaves lift a red bloom with a golden heart almost to the height of the crown; her left hand raises a rolled scroll at her chest. Beaded ornaments layer over her torso, the sash crosses one shoulder, and deep red robes fall along the body into gathered folds at the hem, a grey-green patterned apron panel at the waist answering the dark skirt. Bare feet rest steadily on the lotus petals. Lotus and scroll together give her an air both pure and learned — a fitting presence for a shrine, or for a study or tea room, where she keeps company with quiet thought.