Skip to main content
Vajrayogini has three eyes and appears semi-wrathful, baring her teeth. She drinks from a skull cup while holding a flaying knife in her outstretched hand. A staff (katvanga), topped by three heads and a scepter (vajra), rests on her left shoulder. It symbolizes her absent consort Chakrasamvara. Vajrayogini stands naked with her feet pressed down on gods who signify obstacles. She is surrounded by teachers and sources of transmission lineage. Below her lotus pedestal are protector deities of the tradition.
The Red Yogini, Vajrayogini
OriginTibet
Date19th century
Dimensions32 × 21 5/8 in.
MediumPigments on Cloth
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2002.24.11
Himalayan Art Resources Number65127
DescriptionThis deity embodies female power and the wisdom of understanding the ultimate reality as explained in Buddhist tantric teachings. Her appearance and skull adornments highlight the unconventional nature of tantric practices and help practitioners cultivate non-attachment and contemplate impermanence and the absence of self (ego). Vajrayogini has three eyes and appears semi-wrathful, baring her teeth. She drinks from a skull cup while holding a flaying knife in her outstretched hand. A staff (katvanga), topped by three heads and a scepter (vajra), rests on her left shoulder. It symbolizes her absent consort Chakrasamvara. Vajrayogini stands naked with her feet pressed down on gods who signify obstacles. She is surrounded by teachers and sources of transmission lineage. Below her lotus pedestal are protector deities of the tradition.
17th century
19th century
19th century
14th century
19th century
20th century
19th century
20th century
19th century
15th century
17th or 18th century
19th century