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Vajra
OriginTibet
Date18th century
Dimensions1 × 4 × 1 in.
MediumMetal
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art, Gift from the Collection of Jane Werner-Aye
Object numberSC2022.3.2.1
Project Himalayan Arthttps://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/exhibition/living-practices/ritual/vajra-and-bell/
Currently On Viewat Harn Museum of Art, traveling exhibition Gateway to Himalayan Art, until July 28, 2024
DescriptionThe vajra and bell are the most widely used implements in Tantric Buddhist rituals. They often appear being held by deities and humans in paintings and sculptures. The two objects are highly symbolic, with the vajra scepter representing method (compassionate action) and the bell representing wisdom (understanding of reality). When used together they represent the unity of these two key aspects of the enlightened mind.18th century
14th century
15th century
late 18th - 19th century
early 20th century
19th century
15th century
19th century
18th - 19th century
early 17th century (ca. 1604)
18th century
14th century