Manjushri traditionally represents the realization of transcendent wisdom symbolized by his raised sword, which cuts through ignorance and the illusion of duality. In this carving he is taming him wild mind, symbolized by the ferocious lion, with meditation. I found it interesting that Mañjuśrī is also known by the fuller name of Mañjuśrīkumārabhūta, literally "Mañjuśrī, Still a Youth". This Mañjuśrī, has a gentle young quality about him and his presence is calm despite the roaring lion under him.
