Περιγραφή
A Qing Dynasty Green Nephrite mineral Mahakala six arms statue manually carving, engraving, grinding and finishing of jade.
Weight: 8750 g
Volume: 3030 cm3
Dencity: 2,904 g/cm3
The statue is accompanied from a report from Hebolabo.
Download full lab report by clicking here.
H. 40 cm. W. 20 cm. D. 8 cm.
Mahakala is a category of male Tantric Buddhist deities. The common function of Mahakala is as a protector deity and specifically the primary Wisdom Protector of Himalayan and Tibetan Buddhism. In some cases, Mahakala can also be a meditational deity in the highest Anuttarayoga Tantras. For the study of Mahakala, there are three important topics: Principal Texts, Principal Systems and Principal Iconographic Forms. Mahakala is relied upon in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. However, he is depicted in a number of variations, each with distinctly different qualities and aspects. He is also regarded as the emanation of different beings in different cases, namely Avalokiteśvara or Cakrasaṃvara. Mahakala is almost always depicted with a crown of five skulls, which represent the transmutation of the five kleśās (negative afflictions) into the five pearls of wisdom. The most notable variation in Mahakala’s manifestations and depictions is in the number of arms, but other details can vary as well. For instance, in some cases there are Mahakalas in white, with multiple heads, without genitals, standing on varying numbers of various things, holding various implements, with alternative adornments, and so on.
Symbolism of Mahakala
The Protector’s body color is dark, symbolic of the changeless Dharmakaya. His three eyes symbolize his clear comprehension of the three times and the vivid manifestation of the three bodies of Buddha. The crown of five skulls symbolizes the five poisons (anger, desire. ignorance, jealousy and pride) transformed into five pearls of wisdom. His six arms symbolize the completion of the six perfections: generosity, patience, morality, diligence, meditation, and wisdom. His two feet symbolize means and wisdom. He tramples on the Binayaka, to symbolize his destruction and dispersal of great obstacles. The blazing fire symbolizes his action to consume neurotic states of mind. All his other ornaments symbolize that he has the complete qualities of the buddha.