18th Century Tibetan Bronze Of Vajrapani

Antiques : Bronze : 18th Century : Tibet : Vajrapani : Tibetan

 

This is an exquisite and powerful bronze portraying Vajrapani, the holder of the thunderbolt scepter. This impressive sculpture is of Tibetan origin and dates back to the 18th century. This superb Tibetan bronze sculpture portrays the Bodhisattva Vajrapani sitting in an expressive posture on a lotus pedestal. In his right hand he is holding a Visra Vajra (thunderbolt) before his chest. Vajrapani has three faces with again three eyes, signifying his power to comprehend the past, present, and future. He is wearing a partly cold painted in blue crown with ornamental motives and large earrings on his elongated earlobes. The deity's body is richly adorned with delicately rendered jewelry. Around his neck we find several necklaces. In one of the deity's eight hands we see a small figure of Shakyamuni and in the hand that is placed in his lap we see a small urn. This precious sculpture is delicately executed featuring fine detailing and rich floral chase work. The bottom is sealed off with a copper plate on which we find a neatly incised Double-Vajra. Vajrapani, beholder of the thunderbolt sceptre (symbolizing the power of compassion), is the Bodhisattva who represents the power of all Buddha. Vajrapani is a deity of fierce determination and symbolizes unrelenting effectiveness in the conquest of negativity. As such, this icon brandishes a vajra in an exorcising gesture in his right hand, and with his left hand makes the threatening gesture with index and little fingers pointed up. This is an important piece. It's estimated value when I purchased it was $3,000.00 - $4,000.00.

SPECIFICATIONS: _______________

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Tibet.

DATE: 18th century.

MATERIAL: Bronze. The base is sealed off with a copper plate.

MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUE: Casting and chase work. Remains of cold paint at the hair.

CONDITION: Overall good condition with a highly appealing patina. Minor nicks and dents here and there. Traces of soldering as well as cracks at the base

SIZE: Height is 7.4 inches. (asia 73sz)

Item ID: A3871