$2,103.75
In stock
Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A pair of gilt brass wrathful Dakini deities dancing upon a pair of prone figures on an elongated pedestal, one is Simhamukha Dakini and the other may be Vajra Dakini. Simhamukha is the fierce tantric deity, her face is a Snow Lion with a fanged mouth, wild eyes, flaming hair decorated with skulls, a ritual Kartika knife in the upraised hand, and a skull cap bowl filled with blood in the other. The other 4-armed dakini also has a lion-like head with a skull headdress. The upper hands gesturing the karana mudra and the lower two hold a flower and possibly another skull. A dakini is a type of female spirit in Buddhism that can appear in various shapes that vary from repulsive, fierce demons, or a peaceful human form. The base has a plate capping the hollow interior, perhaps sealing in paper prayers or offerings. Size: 6.75″ L x 2″ W x 7.25″ H (17.1 cm x 5.1 cm x 18.4 cm)
In Tibetan Buddhism, Simhamukha is a wrathful deity associated with wisdom and learning and invoked in certain tantric practices and rituals aimed at dispelling obstacles, negative energies, and spiritual hindrances. “Simhamukha” is Sanskrit comes from “Simha” meaning lion, and “Mukha” means face since she has a Snow Lion visage, the Snow Lion is mythical and auspicious creature of compassion and wisdom. The Kartika knife is designed to be used for ritual flaying in Tantric ceremonies.
Condition: Both figures are not attached and completely removable, putty added to feet to stabilize and stand upright. Patina and dark toning. Some nicks and surface wear, fading to pigments and softening to details, but good condition.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010; ex-private Schoettle collection, Germany
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
