Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts

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Vols：Sculpture

Page：1053

Shengjinkou: Head of Mahesvara

CHINA, Xinjiang, Turpan; circa 9th century; Clay; H: 21.7 cm; Museum of Asian Art, Berlin, Germany
Mahesvara (the supreme lord) is a title of the Hindu god Shiva, a wrathful form of whom was taken into Vajrayana Buddhism as a Protector. He is described in Buddhist texts as being white in color and has fierce features, marked by upturned fangs in the upper jaw. The eyebrows are thick and matted, with a vertical third eye and staring eyes that glance to one side. The form generally appears as eight-armed, riding on a bull, and wearing a floral crown.

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