Mahakala in Buddhism is known as a Dharmapala
(wrathful god) and a protector-deity. He takes terrifying forms to fight demons
and defend Buddhism's esoteric teachings. He is depicted in various forms such
as a four-armed god (who protects Drikung Kagyu) or a two-armed, big-mouthed
one of Karma Kagyu. But in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Mahakala is revered
as a guardian and deity. The two-armed is depicted in this thangka. Mahakala is
the wrathful form of Chenresig, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The wheel of
life is held by Mahakala as he is rendered with time. As habiliments, Mahakala
wears a tiger-skin loincloth that is bound by a green snake belt and a
decorative and protective vajra-scarf that circles his upper body with long
silken ends that billow about his two principal arms and lower body. Meanwhile,
the skull necklace symbolizes his ability to accomplish his vision for humanity
without any hindrances. The serpent on his waist signifies victory over hate.
Two legs rest on humans to also demonstrate his power for the good of all.
Mahakala shines with an unbearable brilliance amidst a blazing mass of wisdom
fire. People who follow the path of the tantras can attain nirvana, shunyata,
in a single human life span.
The Ferocious Protector: A Representation of Four-Faced Mahakala
This striking copper sculpture, meticulously crafted in Nepal and generously gilded with 24 karat gold, embodies the powerful and protective energy of the wrathful deity, Four-Faced Mahakala. Revered in Tibetan Buddhism, Mahakala is a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, transformed into a formidable protector against obstacles and negative forces. His fierce appearance is not one of malice, but rather a symbolic representation of his ability to powerfully overcome ignorance, hatred, and attachment that impede spiritual progress.Symbolism and Iconography
The multi-headed aspect of Mahakala is particularly significant. The central face, with its stern expression and bulging eyes, conveys immense power and unwavering determination. Additional faces, often three in number, represent different facets of his wisdom and omniscience, enabling him to perceive and dismantle obstacles from all directions. The flaming aura that surrounds him symbolizes his purified wisdom, burning away all impurities and obscurations. His numerous arms, each holding symbolic implements such as a sword, a vajra, or a damaru (drum), signify his mastery over various aspects of existence and his ability to manifest his power through diverse means. The miniature skulls adorning his headdress and garlands are not meant to be gruesome, but rather a reminder of the impermanence of all conditioned phenomena and the ultimate victory over death and suffering. He stands upon a prostrate figure, symbolizing his complete dominion over negativity and the ego.Mythological and Cultural Significance
In Tibetan Buddhist lore, Mahakala is invoked to remove hindrances to meditation, protect monasteries and their inhabitants, and safeguard practitioners on their spiritual journey. He is considered the guardian of the Dharma, ensuring its preservation and transmission. His appearance is often associated with periods of intense spiritual practice or when the teachings are under threat. The traditions surrounding Mahakala are rich and varied, with different lineages emphasizing specific forms and practices. This particular sculpture captures the essence of Mahakala as a dynamic and active force, a divine protector who stands vigilant against the challenges that arise both externally and internally on the path to enlightenment.
This exquisite piece serves as a powerful reminder of the protective aspects of the Buddhist pantheon. Its intricate details and lustrous gold finish make it a captivating centerpiece for any altar or sacred space, radiating an aura of spiritual authority and protective grace. It is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Nepalese artisans and a profound visual representation of a key figure in Tibetan Buddhist devotional practice.How are Nepalese copper statues made?
Nepalese statues and sculptures are best known for their unique
small religious figures and ritual paraphernalia for over two
thousand years. These are mainly cast in copper alloy. Nepal draws
influences from the artistic styles of Buddhism and Hinduism, and
therefore the sculptors of the country specialize in making the
icons of both these religions. Over the years, Nepalese sculptures
evolved into their own distinctive iconography. Some
characteristic features of these sculptures that differ from other
pieces are exaggerated physical postures, youthful and sensual
features, languid eyes, wider faces having serene expressions, and
ornate flourishes. The Buddhist deity icons of Nepal have
tremendous demand in countries such as China and Tibet for ritual
purposes in their temples and monasteries.
Nepalese statues and sculptures have a high copper content and
therefore develop a slightly reddish patina on the surface as they
age. However, the most unique feature of Nepalese copper statues
is their decorative detailing. The pieces are heavily gilded and
sometimes inlaid with semi-precious stones. This embellishment
protects them from getting tarnished. The traditional lost-wax
method for casting Nepalese copper statues remains the most
practiced technique in Nepal for many centuries. This process
involves many steps and requires skilled artists.
The first step in lost-wax sculpting is to make a wax replica of
the desired Buddhist deity to be cast in copper. This replica is
created by hand and therefore needs excellent artistic skills
otherwise fine features will be lacking.
Once the wax replica is made, it is then coated with a special
mixture of clay with a brush. This layer of clay is hardened when
left to dry. A small hole is made on the base of the wax mould so
that the wax flows away when it is heated.
At this stage, a hollow mould in the shape of the deity is
obtained.
This is the time to pour liquid copper into the hollow mould which
is then allowed to cool and harden inside a container of cold
water. When the liquid metal has hardened, the mould is removed
and the statue within is revealed.
The artist works on the details of the statue using various tools.
It is then polished to get a shiny and lustrous surface.
Now comes the most important part of Nepalese art which is gold
gilding. This is done by the traditional fire gilding method. A
mixture of mercury and 18K gold is applied on the surface of the
statue and heat is applied using a flame torch. The result is that
mercury evaporates along with impurities, leaving a pure 24K gold
finish.
The lost-wax method of sculpting is the most preferred technique
for artists to cast a metallic statue having intricate details.
Since Nepalese copper sculptures require extraneous effort for
giving a majestic look by adding special embellishments, it takes
several weeks to complete one masterpiece. A 24K gold gilded
copper sculpture retains its brilliant luster for many years and
appears as like before. Nepalese sculptures continue to remain one of the finest specimens of the art of the East that have a strong
aesthetic appeal that other sculptures cannot match.
Upload an Image
