Palcho Monastery Kumbum Stupa Dakini Shrine: Kurukulla

CHINA, Tibet, Gyantse

Kurukulla is regarded as a manifestation of Tara, and is sometimes referred to as the Red Tara. Alternatively, Kurukulla is considered as a manifestation of either Amitabha Buddha or Prajnaparamita. Capable of subduing emotional defilements of sentient beings, Kurukulla also assists in the realization of aspirants’ innate nature before they attain Buddhahood.
The figure is seated in full lotus position upon a double-petaled throne, which is iconically rarer than the usual dancing posture. The five-leaf crown sits above a face that has fierce eyes and gnashing teeth. Behind the body is a flaming nimbus and aureole, both in golden-yellow, while on either side are a pair of green standing attendants with lowered heads. Kurukulla’s body is red, signifying influence over others. Her power is further emphasized by the two male corpses upon which she is sitting. The figure holds a drawn bow, while the other hands form the abhaya (fearlessness) and vitarka (teaching) mudras. A series of complicated ornaments cover the upper body while the lower body is garbed in a green skirt. The elaborate throne-back is carved in a swirling leafy pattern.