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Guhyasamaja Akshobhvajra with Consort
OriginTibet
Date15th century
Dimensions8 3/4 × 7 5/8 × 6 5/8 in.
MediumGilt copper with inlays of semiprecious stones and pigment
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2003.45.1
Himalayan Art Resources Number65271
DescriptionGuhyasamaja is one of the main tantric deities (yidam) who are the focus of the contemplative esoteric practice in Gelug tradition. The seated couple is in sexual embrace, each deity has three heads and six arms, their hands are crossed in front of each other’s chest holding a vajra and bell. In their right hands are a lotus and the wheel. In their left hands are a sword of and a flaming jewel. The two deities represent the same enlightened nature indicated by their hand implements, which together symbolize the union of all the qualities of the Buddha families. Akshobya, which means “the unmovable,” is believed to help the practitioner to master anger, one of the main afflictions that perpetuate the endless cycle of death and rebirth.11th century
mid-19th century
15th century
mid-14th to mid-15th century
15th century
16th century
15th century
early 17th century (ca. 1604)
14th century
20th century
19th century