Bihar: Figurine of Six-Armed Dharma Protector

INDIA, Bihar; Pala period

This figurine was discovered in Bihar and is believed to be a representation of Hevajra, a Dharma protector in Vajrayana Buddhism. It was created in the 11th century during the Pala period.
The figurine has many features from the Pala period, such as the rounded face, the large topknot, and the crown of skulls. Other characteristics include the two additional heads, bulging eyes, a third eye, fangs, and a sharp nose. The Dharma protector wears various jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, armlets, bracelets, anklets, and an elaborate belt. The two arms at the front are crossed at the wrist, forming the vajrahumkara (embracing wisdom) mudra and holding a staff. The other four hands are stretched outward, each holding a Dharma instrument. His left leg touches the ground, while the right leg is tucked inward as if in a dancing posture.