TIBET, 16TH CENTURY

Mahakala is both a protector and meditation deity in Tibetan Buddhism and has many different variations. Mahakala Chaturbhuja, wrathful and with four arms, has lineages in both the old and new traditions, Nyingma and Sarma. In this eminent version, he protects the Chakrasamvara cycle of Tantras, which are essential in the Buddhist Vajrayana tradition. He is typically depicted in a seated position with two hands extended to the sides brandishing a sword and staff. The sophisticated gilding and silver inlay the present example, especially with regards to the gilt facial hair and silver bulging eyes and teeth, highlight his powerful expression and further animate Mahakala's fierce character. For a comparable work demonstrating similar treatment of the base, proportions, facial features and incorporation of inlay, see the Mahasiddha in the Zimmerman Collection (J. Auboyer, Dieux et demons de l'Himalaya, 1977, p.152, fig.150).