13th-14th century, Nepal, Manjushri, Mayajala tantra, gilt copper and stones, 15,8 cm, private collection, photo on Bonhams
This rare form of Manjushri, with one head and twelve hands, is the embodiment of a sacred text known as Arya Manjushri Namasangiti Tantra (see The Circle of Bliss: Buddhist Meditational Art by John Huntington and Dina Bangdel). As such, he is a fully enlightened buddha, with a bodhisattva appearance. Very important in Nepal he is rarely seen elsewhere. The six pairs of hands are related to the cosmic buddhas and Vajrasattva. The above has a small oval face, a tripartite crown with bows and flowing ribbons, modest stone-inlaid jewellery.
Undated, Himalayas, Manjushri, metal, private collection, photo on HAR.
This undated but probably more recent image, possibly from Tibet, is reproduced here as there are so few sculptures on this topic outside Nepal. It displays several Nepalese features such as the oblong urna on the forehead and the small V-shaped mouth, but during the Malla period the lower lip is usually fuller and the fingers far more delicate, whereas the squarish face and the way Kirtimukha is depicted at the front of the crown are more proper to Tibet. We will notice that the upper arms are held so tightly against the head that the symbolism of the gesture is somewhat lost.
Himalayan Buddhist Art - Art Bouddhiste de l'Himalaya 