Lot 89
89
An Unusual Gilt Bronze Figure of Kukkuripa
This lot is offered subject to a reserve, which is… Read more
An Unusual Gilt Bronze Figure of Kukkuripa

TIBET, 17TH CENTURY

Details
An Unusual Gilt Bronze Figure of Kukkuripa
Tibet, 17th Century
Seated with his right knee slightly raised holding a skull cup and embracing his leaping dog, wearing a five-skull headdress over matted strands of hair
7¾ in. (19.5 cm.) high
Special notice
This lot is offered subject to a reserve, which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold.

Lot Essay

Kukuripa is one of the 84 Mahasiddhas usually shown alongside the dog he cared for in life. While he meditated, he was about to attain enlightenment but he declined to leave the earthly abode for fear that the dog would suffer on its own. He was rewarded for his compassion because the dog was in actuality a Dakini who in turn granted him enlightenment.

More from Indian and Southeast Asian art including 20th Century

View All
View All