LORD OF THE FAITH-GUARDING DEITIES (MAHAKALA)

18th Century — Tibet

Mahakala, the Great Black One, is the most popular of the protectors of Tibetan Buddhism, and is often found at the inner entrance of a temple or at his own special shrine. Here he appears in his six-armed manifestation, clothed in an elephant hide and a tiger pelt, trampling the prone elephant-headed figure of Ganesha. His fierce countenance is reinforced by his flame-like hair, a crown and a garland of skulls, and the vajra chopper and skull cup that he holds in his middle hands. Traces remain of a red pigment that once highlighted these features.

Vajra chopper and skull bowl

The Vajra is a ritual weapon often used to symbolize the indestructibility of diamond or the irresistible force of a thunderbolt. Mahakala is represented as an unstoppable figure without mercy or compassion.

Belt of human heads

Mahakala wears a belt of human heads around his waist, further symbolizing his connection to death and the inevitability of time.

Flame-like hair

The Flame-like hair of the Mahakala statue indicates the elemental nature of the represented figure, highlighting his spiritual nature and distinguishing him from mortal humanity. He also wears a crown of five human skulls which represent the transmutation of the five afflictions into the five wisdoms.

Trampling the elephant-headed god, Ganesha

According to Indian tradition, Mahakala is not bound by rules or regulations and represent the ultimate destructive powers of the universe. He is a personification of the merciless and inexorable progress of time, and is responsible for the annihilation of all living things, even gods.