Fugen (Bodhisattva Samantabhadra) on Elephant (Translation)
普贤菩薩騎象像 鎌倉時代 彩色木造 (Primary Title)
sculpture (Object Name)
Unknown (Artist)
These rare examples of monumental sculptures show two bodhisattvas descending to earth, as in a scene described in the Lotus Sutra. The sword in Monju’s hand represents his wisdom and protects against ignorance and evil, while the scrolled sutra in the other hand suggests the source of his wisdom. Fugen, on the elephant, is considered a protector of Buddhist law. Their elaborate crowns and jewelry suggest their noblility and connection to Shayamuni Buddha.
Kamakura period (1185-1333)
Unsigned
none
none
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
