Mongolian Buddhist Art: A Temple of Deities

Explore the Vibrant Sculptures & Craftsmanship of the Temple of Many Deities.

Temple of Arkhats (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

The Peak of Buddhist Art

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Mongolian Buddhist art flourish, reaching the peak of its artistic expression. 

The Temple of Many Deities showcases these exceptional creations.

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Temple of Many Deities: Craftsmanship

The Temple of Many Deities displays a vibrant collection of Buddhist art, showcasing the diverse skills of Mongolian craftspeople. Discover masterpieces created with papier-mâché, wood, and more.

Begtse Dharmapala (18th-19th Century) by BalganThe Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

Begtse Dharmapala: Wrathful Protector

Begtse Dharmapala is one of the Ten Wrathful Patron Deities of Buddhism, known as Dharma Protectors. He embodies strength and power, safeguarding the teachings and practitioners of Buddhism.

Begtse Dharmapala, a towering figure at 82 cm, was crafted from a single piece of wood and adorned with vibrant colors. 

This intricate sculpture showcases the skill of Mongolian artists, capturing the strength and power of this wrathful protector deity.

Hayagriva (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

Hayagriva: A Multi-Headed Deity

Hayagriva, a fierce protector deity, is depicted with three faces and six arms, embodying power and strength. 

He stands on a lotus base, trampling eight serpent-like beings with his feet.

Hayagriva's three faces, red, green, and white, symbolize his power and strength. 

The top of the central head is adorned with three green horse heads, a powerful visual motif in Buddhist iconography.

This multi-headed deity is a powerful symbol of protection in Buddhist iconography.

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The Temple of Many Deities houses a diverse collection of Buddhist art, including remarkable wood sculptures by master Balgan and exquisite papier-mâché works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing the diverse skills of Mongolian artisans.

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