New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Shadbhuja Mahakala

Artist Unknown

CultureNepalese

Date1600-1900

MediumWood

Dimensions51 x 32 x 7 in. (129.5 x 81.3 x 17.8 cm)

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.272

Collections

Asian Art

On View

On view

DescriptionA Bhairava made of wood, in five pieces. Arch with Garuda at center top has MAKURA heads each side (probably did not originally go with this piece, but a similar one). Bhairava stands on Ganesha and holds drum, club, noose, and unidentified object in 2 hands before him. One figure on each pillar holds a skull necklace (?) and a similar object before him as central figure. Base is supported by two lions each on lotus flower, central crescent shaped area carved with APSARA.

Label TextShadbhuja Mahakala Nepalese, Malla Dynasty, 1600–1900 C.E. Wood Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 71.272A–E With his six arms poised, this Shadbhuja Mahakala tramples the elephant-headed god Ganesh, demonstrating his power to overcome anything that stands in his way. As a wrathful emanation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, this form of Mahakala shares his fierce traits with the faithful, helping Buddhists conquer the obstacles to their enlightenment. The gruesome details—his crown of skulls, necklace of severed heads, and menacing weapons—are meant to remind viewers about the power and religious authority of Buddhism.