Vajrapani Bodhisattva

CHINA, Tibet

In the Bhutadamara Tantra, Vajrapani Bodhisattva is praised by the Buddhas for being the protector of Dharma during the Age of Dharma Decline. In this Tibetan thangka, a larger central image of Vajrapani is surrounded by 68 smaller depictions of the Bodhisattva. All of the figures, drawn in red ink against a gold background, have a similar appearance. The wrathful Vajrapani wears a five-leaf crown and has flowing hair. Touches of color are added to accent the facial features. A stole is draped around the shoulders and the lower body is covered with tiger skin. The right hand holds a vajra, symbolizing the ability to negate interference from all evil. The left hand displays a mudra in front of the chest. One foot rests on a lotus pedestal and the other is raised. Flame patterns surround each figure.