Vajrabhairava c. 18th century

natural stone pattern

naturalistic pattern

abstract painting

animal print

geometric pattern

abstract pattern

organic pattern

flower pattern

layered pattern

pattern in nature

This 18th-century Tibetan painting, titled "Vajrabhairava", depicts a wrathful deity, Vajrabhairava, a fierce manifestation of the Buddha. The painting showcases the intricate details and vibrant colors typical of Tibetan Buddhist art. Vajrabhairava is depicted with multiple heads and arms, symbolizing his power and authority, and surrounded by a chaotic and dynamic environment. The rich use of gold and other pigments enhances the visual impact and spiritual significance of the artwork. The painting would have been used for devotional purposes by Tibetan Buddhists, representing a powerful protective force against negative energies and promoting spiritual enlightenment.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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This black-ground thangka would have guided an advanced practitioner in meditation focused on overcoming the fear of death. The central deity, Vajrabhairava, is depicted in his most ferocious form with numerous heads, including a water buffalo's as his central head. Each of his 32 arms bears a weapon and he tramples demons and Hindu gods underfoot. The image's ferocity was intended to protect the practitioner from their own fears and delusion when meditating on this difficult subject. Other protector deities surround Vajrabhairava, including the goddess Palden Lhamo on horseback at the bottom center, functioning to empower the practitioner. Five lineage gurus of the Gelugpa (yellow hat) order appear overhead, and the bodhisattva Manjushri is at the very center. The theme of death is further conveyed by the grizzly setting, likely a cremation ground, where frightening creatures run amock and blood, guts, brains, and eyeballs appear in offering vessels.