Pasho Monastery: Vajra Nairatmya

CHINA, Tibet, Qamdo

This sculpture differs from the more common form of Nairatmya who is usually depicted dancing on a human corpse. Although the figure wears a headdress decorated with human skulls and holds a flaying knife and skull bowl, these remnants of her wrathful nature contrast with the handsome and compassionate appearance. Nairatmya’s long hair falls to the shoulders, while the rest of the body is elaborately adorned with ornate jewelry. The figure sits in a posture of ease upon a double lotus throne.