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Vajrapani

Unknown12th-13th century

San Antonio Museum of Art

San Antonio Museum of Art
San Antonio, United States

In Vajrayana Buddhist teachings, Vajrapani represents the power of all the Buddhas and belongs to the important group of Eight Great Bodhisattvas. He is associated with the power to overcome obstacles. In this sculpture, Vajrapani is shown in wrathful form. He stands in the energetic Warrior Pose with right leg bent and left leg extended. His upraised left hand holds a five-pronged vajra, or thunderbolt scepter, while his left hand is in a threatening gesture. The vajra, in this context, represents power. Vajrapani wears a three-leaf crown, and his hair is textured in a manner suggesting flames. His mouth is open to reveal his fangs. Vajrapani’s compact, muscular body is adorned with snakes forming anklets, bracelets, and the largest of his necklaces. He also wears double earrings and a necklace bearing a pendant that matches the crown. A tiger skin covers his waist. This finely cast, soft copper figure is an early example of a metal image of Vajrapani originating in the Himalayan region. The facial features and adornments are rendered in great details. This figure would have originally been set into a base, very likely of simplified lotus forms, which is now lost.

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  • Title: Vajrapani
  • Creator: Unknown
  • Date Created: 12th-13th century
  • Location Created: Tibet
  • Physical Dimensions: H. 12”; w. 10 ¼”; d. 3 3/8”
  • Type: Sculpture
  • Medium: Cast copper alloy
  • Credit Line: Purchased with funds provided by the Ewing Halsell Foundation
San Antonio Museum of Art

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