Lotus Bearer on the White Elephant

Viewing notes

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

This polychrome bodhisattva sits in calm state atop a white elephant. A tall golden crown rises above the serene, downcast face; one hand lifts a pink lotus bloom beside the shoulder while the other rests before the body, and one foot touches a pink lotus rising at the elephant's side. Behind the figure spreads a great pointed aureole in gold and crimson, dense with scrolling foliage and edged with fine radiating rays. The robes weave vermilion, deep blue and gilt patterning, with beaded ornaments across the chest. The elephant is pure white, its long tusks gilded, red-and-gold bands across brow and trunk, standing on a golden cloud platform above a dark, high plinth carved with gilt scrollwork and painted floral bands. Rich in colour yet composed in mood, it suits enshrinement at the principal position of a shrine, or as the dignified anchor of a hall.