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Mahakala, Legden, Excellent One
OriginTibet
Date15th century
Dimensions13 1/2 × 7 3/4 × 5 5/8 in.
MediumGilt copper alloy with inlays of semiprecious stones
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2003.10.3
Himalayan Art Resources Number65208
DescriptionThis sculpture shows the wrathful deity Mahakala in a form found in practices of the Ancient (Nyingma) tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and originates in the hidden treasure (Tibetan: terma) teachings. He wears a heavy coat and boots and holds a large sandalwood club with both hands in front of his body. His appearance is ferocious, emphasized by his blazing hair that stands on end. The sculpture has been engraved with patterns of auspicious symbols. Vajra, lotuses, clouds, and phoenixes are among six different floral and geometric motifs. The sculpture was inlaid with shaped quartz-crystal cabochons and lapis lazuli along with an unidentified red stone in place of a ruby.There are no works to discover for this record.