A STONE FIGURE OF BODHISATTVA SMANTHABADRA Tibet, ca, 11th ct. H. 10,5 cm This early stone miniature shows a bodhisattva in a standing posture. In his left hand he holds a branch and on the right a wish jewel (mani). The index finger and little finger of both hands are extended in a threatening and at the same time protective gesture, warding off demons and obstacles. He belongs to the series of the Eight Mahabodhisattvas. In this depiction he dwells in the Samboghakaya, in the adorned body, dressed in triple crown, jewellery and silk dhoti. Samantabhadra appears in the Avatamsaka Sutra riding an elephant, as the "All-embracing Good", together with Manjushri on a lion, as the companion of Buddha Shakyamuni. The Bodhisattva became known for being able to multiply offerings to the Buddha through his special miraculous powers, which also explains his attribute of the Wish Jewel. Old South German private collection, bought from Schoettle East Asian Art, Stuttgart prior 1975 Partly chipped