Bronze with gilding. Tibet, approx. 14th cent.
An especially rare, characterful piece in an impressive, powerful composition! It is a four-barred vajra, originating from the "thunder bolt" of the storm god Indra in Tibetan Buddhism, on the other hand said to be a "diamond sceptre“, symbol of the Absolute and integrity of the Tradition. Arising from the four bars on both sides are gilded makara heads, referring to a "fish dragon" mythical creature. The middle section is enclosed by ribbed seams and displays as gilded decor respectively four blossoms with inlaid turquoise, as well as alternating grinning skull masks.
LENGTH 22,3 CM
From a German private collection
鑲金青銅造金剛杵。西藏,約14世紀。長22.3厘米。