Crossed Vajra Location Tibet Date 20th century Material Metalwork Catalog Number C2005.44 Collection Rubin Museum of Art Provenance Gift from the Collection of Navin Kumar, New York
Ushnisavijaya and Celebration of Old Age (Jyatha Janko) Nepal, 19th century, Pigments on cloth Chariot Ritual (Bhimaratha Pata) Nepal, dated by inscription, 1902 , Pigments on cloth Ritual Peg (purba) Tibet, 17th century, Wood with pigments Vajra Scepter Tibet, 16th century, Metalwork Vajra and Bell Tibet, 18th century, Metal Skull Cup Nepal, ca. 18th century, Metalwork and human skull
Merit In Himalayan cultures religious merit is the overarching reason for creating, commissioning, dedicating, and using religious works of art. Merit Secular Aims Religious rituals and the commissioning of art can serve everyday secular needs, the most common being wealth, health, and long life. Secular Aims Religious Goals Tantric practitioners strive to transform themselves by using meditative and ritual tools with the ultimate goal of enlightenment or awakening. Religious Goals Storytelling Many Himalayan paintings serve as illustrations and instructional tools that bring forth stories about the Buddha, Tibetan masters, and more. Storytelling Instruction Instructive paintings can illustrate religious doctrines, medical and astrological charts, or images of ritual implements and meditative postures. Instruction Art in Context Experience a sacred space similar to what could be found in a Tibetan household where religious objects are displayed and used in ritual and devotional practices. Art in Context
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