Potala Palace: Phurpas

CHINA, Tibet, Lhasa

This group of elaborately colored wooden phurpas was made in Tibet during the 17th century. They range in height from 20 cm to 30 cm high. The handles are carved with the faces of animals, including a pig, sheep, lion, eagle, bird, cat, naga king, horse, and lizard. The handles are also decorated with lotus petals between colorful woven bands. At the bottom of each handle, there is the head of a makara with glaring eyes and exposed fangs. The makaras bite onto snakes which rest in different positions on the sharp red triple-edge blades. Phurpas are used in rituals to subdue demons and the enemies of Buddhism.