Attendant with the Flame Sword

Viewing notes

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

This golden attendant bodhisattva sits at the right hand of his principal figure. He wears a tall pearl-set crown with long beaded tassels; his pale face is lowered in a smile, his pose one of grace — one leg folded, the other foot let down onto a golden lotus bud at the altar base’s front edge. His right hand grips a sword upright, taller than his shoulder, its blade edged like flame; his left holds a scroll across his knee. Golden robes roll in layered folds, sashes spilling beyond the seat, and beaded ornaments set with red and blue stones fall across his chest and knees — opulent, yet composed. Below, a rectangular golden altar pedestal is carved with two dharma wheels linked by scrolling stems, its front-centre lotus catching the lowered foot. An attendant in rank only — in presence he rivals the principal himself, balancing the set when enshrined within it, and alone, a rippling golden piece that catches every eye in the room.