Gilt bronze sculpture "Vajrabhairava", Qing Dynasty

This gilded bronze sculpture represents Vajrabhairava, also known as Yamantaka. The figure shows the deity in his most ferocious form, with a total of 34 arms extended in a fan-like arrangement, holding multiple ritual attributes; among these are vajras, knives, skulls, a bell (ding), and a drum. The deity has multiple heads, the central one being that of a buffalo, a symbol of death, which is ferocious. The bulging eyes and open mouths reflect his wrathful nature. Above the central head is a red flame, a symbol of purification.

The figure is embedded on a lotus base and depicts the deity treading on defeated deities, a representation of his power to subjugate the forces of evil and ignorance. The yab-yum, or position with his female consort, is symbolically shown through the deity's arms, embracing the union of compassion and wisdom. The details of the deity's trousers, with their golden embellishments, the intricate jewels and belts decorating her figure, and the additional hands wrapped around her, create a striking visual effect. Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) or later.

Size: 16 x 13.5 cm

Weight: 1500 g