Prajnaparamita of Java

The Prajñāpāramitā of Java is a renowned 13th-century statue depicting the Bodhisattvadevi Prajñāpāramitā from the Singhasari kingdom in East Java, Indonesia. This statue is celebrated for its artistic and historical significance, exemplifying the pinnacle of classical Hindu-Buddhist art from ancient Java. It is currently housed in the National Museum of Indonesia in Jakarta.

The statue portrays the goddess of transcendental wisdom in a serene and meditative pose, exuding an aura of peace and enlightenment. Adorned with intricate jewelry and elegant decorations, she sits in a lotus position known as vajrasana on a double lotus cushion atop a square base. Her hands perform the dharmachakra-mudra, while she holds an utpala (blue lotus) along with the Prajñāpāramitā Sutra. The craftsmanship is extraordinary, evident in her finely chiseled features, the high hair arranged in a Jatamakuta crown, and the radiant halo that signifies her divinity and supreme wisdom.

The statue was discovered in excellent condition near the Singhasari temple in Malang, East Java. It is believed to be connected to Queen Ken Dedes or Queen Gayatri Rajapatni, reflecting local traditions and historical ties. In Mahayana Tantric Buddhism, Prajñāpāramitā is venerated as the consort of Vajradhara, symbolizing perfect knowledge.

In the 13th century, the statue enjoyed royal patronage under King Kertanegara of Singhasari. While other Prajñāpāramitā statues were crafted in the region, this one is distinguished by its pristine condition. It was discovered in the early 19th century by a Dutch official, taken to the Netherlands, and ultimately returned to Indonesia in 1978. Today, it is a star attraction at the National Museum of Indonesia, representing the zenith of ancient Indonesian art, which seamlessly blends aesthetic elegance with profound spiritual significance.