Dzogang Monastery: Vairocana Buddha

CHINA, Tibet, Qamdo

Vairocana is one of the meditation deities visualized in the influential Guhyasamaja Tantra of Vajrayana Buddhism. A Dharma wheel held in the main right hand, and a bell in the main left hand identifies the figure as Vairocana Buddha. The attributes in the other hands include a vajra, lotus flower, sword, and a flaming jewel. These elements symbolize the other Dhyani Buddhas and rotate as if a different Buddha is the focus, with his own symbol always in the principal right hand. The figure has three faces with a third wisdom eye. The eyes are wide and frowning beneath a crown studded with turquoise. These stones are also used in the jewelry adorning his body. The figure sits in the full lotus position upon a traditional lotus throne that rests on a square base decorated with a vase and two lions.