Wang Xuanming Tomb 1: Hairpin with Marici

CHINA, Hubei, Huanggang; Ming dynasty

This Ming dynasty (1368–1644) artifact was discovered in 2009 in Wang Xuanming Tomb 1 in Yuhu village of Huanggang, Qichun county, Hubei.
The hairpin is made from gold and is 11.7 cm long. Marici is a Buddhist Dharma protector depicted with three faces, a nimbus, and eight arms. Marici is seated in full lotus position while riding on a chariot. The figure wears a crown with a depiction of Nirmana-Buddha and the body is decorated with many ornaments. The arms are extended to the sides, with the two main hands holding mirrors that represent the sun and the moon. The other hands hold different objects including a bow, bell, vajra, sword, and hook. The figure is forming the karana (warding off evil) mudra while holding a thread.
The boars lined up at the front of the chariot represent the Nine Golden Boar Chariot. There are protective barriers above the boars, and five red rubies are inlaid in the base of the chariot. On each side of the double-wheeled chariot, there is a figure carrying a Dharma wheel and stepping on auspicious clouds.
Marici has its origins in the folklore of ancient India and was later adopted by Buddhists. The protector is frequently depicted riding on a chariot with seven boars or on the back of a single boar. This depiction of Marici riding on a Nine-Boar Chariot is the only known example.