Lotus Mandala of Hevajra

This intriguing object is a three-dimensional mandala in the shape of a lotus. A mandala is a meditation tool in the form of an architectural blueprint of a deity's palace that enables human interaction with the divine. Supported on a stalklike base, this mandala features one early Indian grouping of the Eight Great Siddhas on the exterior of its eight petals, one siddha per petal. The lotus once enclosed a now-lost deity and his consort at the center. On the inside of each petal are eight female yoginis, who were part of the central couple's retinue. When closed, this flower resembles a bud.