The
youthful figure of Mahakala sitting in Royal Ease above a
double lotus plinth is a rare image of the deity, who is more
often portrayed pot bellied, standing in an pratayalidha
(active warrior pose), and acting as the protector instead
of the meditation deity as shown in this seated position.
Like Lhamo
Penden, Yamaraja and Vajrapani,
Mahakala is one of the Dharmapalas who was originally a demon,
he was later tamed by Manjushri and Avolokiteshvera, and turned
into a fierce protector of the dharma. He is considered as
an archetype deity, functioning as an enlightened being with
whom the practitioner identifies. As a terrific manifestation,
Mahakala has the spiritual power to conquer addictive emotions
and to dispel inner obstacles.
Despite
of all six attributes once held in his hands are now missing.
There are wonderful details in this statue of Mahakala. He
is depicted with three heads and six arms, with finely forged
fingers and facial features, he is both expressive and powerful.
The motif seen above his head may had suggested the image
of the primordial Buddha Vajrahara.His body is elaborately
decorated with jewels and wearing a feather loincloth. In
addition to Mahakala's spiritual presence in the statue, the
aged bronze itself exudes great mystery.
