MONGOLIE, XVIIIEME SIECLE

This rare representation of Hayagriva, embracing his consort and having wings, like other guardian deities in Tibetan Buddhism, has become a defender of the faith and is of Brahmanic origin. In Mahayana Buddhism, he was associated with the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara and particularly in his eight-armed manifestation. In the Second Diffusion of Buddhism in Tibet, he was especially promoted by Atisha (982-1054) and in due time became linked to all cults featuring horse spirits. Not unsurprisingly, he proved very popular amongst the nomadic Mongolians as well. In Tantric Buddhism his demon-conquering abilities were emphasized, both as dharmapala and as an important guardian of the dGe.lugs.pa order. His neighing wards off demons and he is invoked during certain exorcism rituals. This current bronze figure was likely made in Mongolia for followers of the Tibetan Buddhist faith. A comparable Mongolian example of Hayagriva with wings and embracing his consort is published by G. Béguin in Tibet, Terreur et Magie, Brussels, pl.14.