 | Antique
Tibetan Gilded Bronze Hayagriva
Phurba Three
Metals Dagger
Origin: Tibet. Circa: 19th century and earlier
H 19 in.(48cm), W 4.3 in.(11cm), D 4.3
in.(11cm) Condition: very good! The
tip of this substantial phurba is definitely rendered and comes down into a definitive
point. Angled on three-sides, framing the tip are symbolic nagas the underworld
snakes. Since Hayagriva is one of the deities who conquers nagas he is thought
to be especially effective to cure illnesses. Above the dagger point is the simmering
three faces of the naga, the connection between the underworld. There is a substantial
binding division between the two key elements of this phurba that then moves into
the three-headed representation of Hayagriva. Each of Hayagriva's heads has three
eyes, bushy eyebrows and an emblem of four skulls. The upswept hair of the three
heads comes together at the top with a horse's head emerging at the apex. The
horse, the distinguishing symbol of Hayagriva is depicted here with vital nobility
a realistic arch to the neck, and gracefully curved ears and eyes that are present,
vitalized awake. This weighted bronze exhibits an earthy boldness deepened with
usage and is in very good condition. (SD)
 Estimated
value: $3300
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or call: 510-918-2333
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| The
phurpa is a Tibetan three-sided ritual implement associated with Tibetan Buddhism
or BĂin. The Sanskrit term for phurba is kilaya that means to nail down as well
as bind. As a ritual implement used by high Tantric initiates the phurba is employed
to hold demons negative thought-forms or obscurations in place in order that the
mindstream is re-directed and inherent obscurations transmuted. This formidable
19th century tri-metal phurba is an evocation of Hayagriva, the "horse-necked
one. Hayagriva is one of the multiple emanations of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva
of absolute compassion. Specifically, Hayagriva is an archetypal fierce, dynamic
manifestation of Avalokiteshvara's undying compassion. Unusually large in size,
this nineteen inch triple blade phurpa symbolizes the overcoming or cutting through
of the three root poisons of ignorance, desire, and hatred.
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