Mahavairochana (Bodhisattva Vajrapani)

Vairochana, one of the five Dhyani Buddhas and is another name of the Sun God, whose effulgence is reflected in the golden hue of his body. The gilded deity is seated erect in lalitasana on a circular white lotus pedestal. His four faces point to the cardinal directions and symbolize omniscient wisdom. A vajra (thunderbolt) is tucked in the tapering jata with a four-leafed tiara, symbolic of his position. The technique of gilding deployed in the creation of this piece renders it important.