Machig Labdron, the Tibetan Yogini

Machig Labdron (1055-1153) was a principal disciple of the Indian master Phadampa Sangye who founded the Chod, or “Cutting,” tradition in Tibetan Buddhism. White in color, dancing, and holding a hand drum and a bell, she appears as a “wisdom dakini” with bone ornaments. At the top center is the primordial Buddha Vajradhara accompanied by the Five Buddhas, Prajnaparamita, and, below them, Buddha Shakyamuni. To the Buddha’s sides Phadampa and Vajrayogini occupy dark flat clouds. At the bottom of the painting are the meditational deity Troma Nagmo—the wrathful form of Vajravarahi—and the worldly protectors Tsi’u Marpo and Chang Shon.