TIBET, 17TH-18TH CENTURY

The present figure of Shadbuja Mahakala is indicative of the stylistic sophistication and refined craftsmanship of 17^th to 18^th century Tibetan sculptural tradition. This iconographical representation is derived from the Shangpa Kagyu school, and the figure arises from the Eight-Chapter Mahakala Tantra belonging to the Kriya classification.
The six-armed, singular faced Mahakala is shown often trampling the elephant figure of Ganesh in vengeful triumph. As in this case, Ganesh represents obstacles to enlightenment – such as ignorance, hatred, and desire -- and the fierce protector of Mahakala is indicative of the importance of overcome hardship. Further, the figure is embellished with the standard iconographic accessories, including a crown of skulls, and bone and snake adornments.
The details on this sculpture are intricately carved, contributing to the sense of life and movement, and enhancing the already dynamic pose of the figure. Even at this scale, one can discern the beaded attire to the articulated fingers. The object is also painted with a red-oxide finish to highlight the hair and hand attributes of the deity, imbuing the lot with a further sense of lifelike animism.