TIBET, 15TH-16TH CENTURY

The present rotund figure depicts the Buddhist wealth deity, Jambhala. This image is often confused with the Hindu god Kubera, or the Buddhist Guardian King, Vaishravana. Jambhala’s unusual appearance descends from ancient Indian, yaksha figures. In visual iconography, the Hindu god Kubera, also a wealth deity, and Jambhala are essentially identical. Vaishravana, however, can be easily distinguished by the presence of its armour, among other attributes. In any representations of Kubera, Vaishravana and Jambhala the mongoose that these deities clutch spews jewels, exemplifying their wealthgranting powers.