262 - Padmapani Lokeshvara, India, Kashmir, 11th–12th century

Padmapani Lokeshvara, India, Kashmir, 11th–12th century A copper alloy statuette with a brown-green patina, depicted standing with a slightly swaying posture, holding the stem of a blooming lotus at shoulder height in the left hand, while the lowered right hand traces the gesture of giving. The tall headdress, the ornaments, the rendering of the dhoti, and the fluidity of the silhouette are characteristic of the Kashmiri sculptural tradition, which was strongly influenced by models from eastern India during the Pala period. At the deity’s feet stands a small preta named Suchimukha, “needle-mouthed,” depicted with his arms outstretched toward the bodhisattva’s hand. This presence, quite unusual in a simple depiction of Padmapani, refers to the iconography of Avalokiteshvara in his Khasarpana form: the bodhisattva bestows nectar upon the preta, who is condemned by his very nature to insatiable hunger, thus illustrating his compassion toward all beings. Pala depictions of Khasarpana Lokeshvara specifically show Suchimukha beneath the bodhisattva’s right hand, receiving the nectar. The combination of Pala stylistic elements and Kashmiri characteristics is particularly indicative of the artistic exchanges between eastern India, Kashmir, and the Himalayan regions during this period. Height: 13.3 cm Oxidation and surface imperfections; general wear.