Manjusri
1279-1644
Classification
Painting
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Charles Lang Freer
Accession Number
F1916.190
Tags
About this artwork
To 1916
Art Historical Context
Behold the serene depiction of *Manjusri*, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, in this exquisite Chinese painting from the Yuan1279–1368) or Ming (1368–1644) dynasty. Created by an unknown artist, it captures a pivotal figure in Mahayana Buddhism, revered for embodying transcendent knowledge and compassion. Such artworks flourished during these dynasties, when Buddhist iconography blended with evolving Chinese artistic traditions, often emphasizing spiritual harmony amid imperial patronage. Key symbols adorn the composition: a radiant halo signifying, a majestic lion asjusri's mount symbolizing fearle...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...