Artwork Details

Title
Vajrabhairava with Consort Vajravetali
Dimensions
4 3/16 × 3 7/16 × 2 in.
Medium
Gilt brass
Origin
China
Classification(s)
sculpture
Date
second half of the 15th century
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Object number
C2005.16.63
HAR Number
65486

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Meditation

Concepts

A contemplative practice in which a person uses concentration and visualization to achieve aims such as transforming the mind and generating feelings of compassion. Techniques include focusing on breathing or visualizing oneself as a deity.

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Tantrism

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A religious movement that originated in India around the fifth to seventh century with sacred writings and esoteric teachings and practices transmitted from teacher to student through initiation. These remain an important part of Hinduism and Buddhism today. 

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Wrathful Deities

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

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Chinese Regions

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Although Tibetan Buddhism was not practiced broadly in China, the imperial centers, such as Beijing and Mount Wutai, emerged as hubs of Tibetan Buddhist cultural production. The emperors of the Mongol Yuan (1271–1368), Chinese Ming (1368–1644), and Manchu Qing (1644–1911) dynasties harnessed Tibetan Buddhist ideas to consolidate their power.

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