TIBET, 19TH CENTURY

Chitipati represent two Buddhist ascetics who were so deeply absorbed in meditation that they were unaware of their own death, and changed into wrathful death spirits with vows of eternal vengeance. Usually chitipati are shown as a male and female pair of skeletons intertwined in a frenzied dance. The present example is unusual in that they are calmly seated as if in conversation, perhaps a better representation of perfect awareness.

Primarily Chitipati is employed as a wealth practice, with emphasis as protection from thieves. Chitipati is special protector for the Vajra Yogini practice.