Banbar Monastery: Vajradhara

CHINA, Tibet, Qamdo

This 15th century bronze sculpture is of Tibetan origin and depicts the primordial Vajradhara (thunderbolt bearing) Buddha, who is said to be the supreme essence of all beings and is usually depicted in blue form.
The figure is gilded and sits on a lotus pedestal in full lotus position. A jewel surmounts the tall topknot, and a trefoil crown and decorative leaf-like earrings frame the head. The head is tilted to one side and gives the sculpture a feel of dynamic movement. This is accentuated by the forearms crossed over the chest with the hands held in vajrahumkara (embracing wisdom) mudra. Long-stalked lotuses wind from the hands up to the shoulders and support this Buddha’s identifying attributes, the vajra and bell.