H. 47,5 cm Condition A DARK BROWN HARD ROCK PADMAPANI STELE, Nepal, 11th ct. Also known as 'The Lotus Bearer', Padmapani is one of the most famous and important deities of the Buddhist pantheon and a manifestation of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. He is said to have created the fourth world, i.e. the Universe, as well as all living things. He embodies compassion and the force of creation which is symbolised by the lotus flower he is holding in his left hand. Padmapani is dressed like an Indian prince, wearing a finely pleated dhoti, a crown, and jewellery. He is standing on a double lotus base in tribhanga posture, his right hand showing the varadamudra. His finely carved face shows an expression of deep contemplation and serenity. A tapering nimbus can be seen behind his head, enclosed by an aureole.-Property from a Swiss private collection, acquired in 2003-Stand