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Gangzha Monastery: Six-Armed Mahakala
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Gangzha Monastery: Six-Armed Mahakala
CHINA, Tibet, Qamdo; 17th–18th century; Gilt copper alloy; H: 13.5 cm
This ferocious looking Tibetan bronze sculpture dates from between the 17th and 18th centuries and represents the six-armed version of Mahakala. An elaborate crown surrounds the high topknot. A fringe beard surrounds the snarling mouth. The two main hands hold a skull cup and cleaver. The two remaining right hands hold prayer beads and a hand drum, while the left hands hold a trident and a snare. A garland of severed heads hangs below Mahakala’s sagging stomach as the figure assumes the warrior stance. An elephant-headed deity is crushed beneath the feet on the inverted lotus pedestal. |
