Human world
Cast bronze figure of the Bodhisattva of Wisdom Manjushri (Sanskrit) Wenshu (Chinese)
China, Late Ming dynasty (1368-1644), 17th century
This cast bronze figure shows the Bodhisattva sitting on a lion, which was originally a demon, that he tamed and made to serve him. As wisdom is greatly honoured by Buddhists, this Bodhisattva is at the top of the hierarchy. Monks and scholars pray to him to dispel ignorance.
The Bodhisattva is an important concept of Mahayana Buddhism.
Bodhisattvas are compassionate and enlightened beings. They step back from reaching the final goal of Nirvana in order to help all people. Their aim is to save everybody and not just themselves.
Bodhisattvas wear crowns and jewellery, showing that they still belong to this world. This is in contrast to the simple clothing of the Buddha.