Dorje Drolo, One of the Eight Manifestations of Padmasambhava

Rubin Museum of Art

Artwork Details

Title: Dorje Drolo, One of the Eight Manifestations of Padmasambhava

Dimensions: 76 7/8 × 70 × 1 1/8 in.

Medium: Textile applique

Origin: Tibet or Bhutan

Classification(s): textiles

Date: 19th century

Credit Line: Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art

Object number: C2004.14.5

HAR Number: 65336

Published references: * Callananl, Jeanne de Guardiola, and Carlton C. Rochell. Road to Enlightenment: Sculpture and Painting from India, the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. New York: Carlton Rochell Ltd, 2004. (Cat. No. 29)

Iconography

Archer’s/Hunter’s Stance

Vajra

A vajra is a ritual scepter used in tantric practices and an attribute of tantric masters and deities. It generally symbolizes method, the male aspect of enlightenment.

Three-Bladed Dagger

This implement is used in tantric rituals and is also an attribute of wrathful deities. It symbolizes cutting through ignorance, desire, and hatred, the three “root poisons” that perpetuate the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

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Enlightenment

Concepts

A state of “waking up” from illusion and seeing the true nature of reality. Buddha Shakyamuni attained enlightenment while meditating under the bodhi tree. Buddhist teaching explains that the accumulation of merit and wisdom are essential for achieving enlightenment, also known as awakening.

Identity

Concepts

Buddhists believe identity is not fixed but is variable and dependent on causes and conditions. It is a temporary, transitional, and ever-changing interplay of mental and physical elements.

Wrathful Deities

Figure Type

Protectors of Buddhist teachings who destroy obstacles that impede the path to enlightenment. The more frightening and gruesome their appearance, the greater their power.