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Photograph by David De Armas, Rubin Museum of Art, 2012.
Panjaranatha Mahakala
Photograph by David De Armas, Rubin Museum of Art, 2012.
Photograph by David De Armas, Rubin Museum of Art, 2012.

Panjaranatha Mahakala

OriginTibet
Date15th century
Dimensions10 1/8 × 7 1/8 × 4 1/8 in. (Estimate - Base/Mout size: TBD)
MediumStone with pigments
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2002.10.2
Himalayan Art Resources Number65085
Project Himalayan Arthttps://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/related/panjaranatha-mahakala/
DescriptionBlack stone is the most fitting material for depictions of Mahakala, the “Great Black One.” In this finely carved early Tibetan example the bulky wrathful deity is squatting on a lotus pedestal with wide petals. His head and body are massive and his legs extremely muscular. The magic wooden gong supported by both arms is extremely prominent. Behind the head a scarf forms an elegant bow, a feature that is characteristic of early depictions of wrathful deities with strong Nepalese connections. Its shape resonates well with the busy border of flames.
Not on view