TIBET, 15TH CENTURY

Standing upright over a prone figure and holding a curved knife and skull cup in his hands, this finely-cast image depicts Mahakala Panjarnata, or Mahakala as Lord of the Pavilion. Considered to be a protector deity in every sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Panjarnata is considered to be the principle protector deity of the Sakya school and of the Shri Hevajra cycle of tantras. Typically, images of Panjarnata depict him with a gandhi (staff) resting across the crook of his arms, which in the present image is missing. This charming work is distinguished by the silver inlays in the eyes and jewelry, creating a shimmering image that highlights the ferocity of this powerful figure.