Description
Mahakala Bernakchen Sacred Tibetan Sculpture: A Formidable Protector
This Mahakala Bernakchen Sacred Tibetan Sculpture stands an impressive 30.9 inches (78.5 cm) high upon a broad 23.4-inch (59.5 cm) base and weighs 31.61 kg. Meticulously handcrafted by skilled Nepali artisans, the statue is formed from a substantial copper body and enriched with traditional gold and acrylic painting. Carefully placed gemstones add vivid ornamental accents, while the contrasting finishes emphasize Bernakchen’s wrathful expression, ritual implements, elaborate jewelry, rising hair, and distinctive black cloak. The sculpture’s monumental dimensions, considerable weight, and commanding visual presence make it especially suitable as a central figure for a temple altar, Karma Kagyu protector shrine, monastery, spacious meditation hall, or significant collection of Himalayan Buddhist art.
Bernakchen, whose name means “Great Black Cloak,” is a two-armed form of Mahakala portrayed with one wrathful face, three penetrating eyes, bared fangs, and hair and eyebrows rising like flames. His raised right hand holds a curved flaying knife with a vajra handle, symbolizing the severing of attachment, ignorance, and forces that obstruct awakening. His left hand carries a skull cup traditionally filled with symbolic offerings, representing the transformation of destructive energies into enlightened wisdom. A crown of five skulls signifies the transformation of the five mental poisons into the five wisdoms, while his garland and fierce ornaments express the uncompromising power of awakened activity. The enveloping black cloak is the defining attribute of this protector form, symbolizing the vast and immediate protection he extends over the Dharma and its practitioners. Particularly revered within the Karma Kagyu tradition as a guardian of the Karmapa lineage, Bernakchen embodies fierce compassion devoted to removing obstacles, safeguarding sacred teachings, and creating favorable conditions for spiritual practice.
Size: 30.9”/78.5cm (Height) x 23.4”/59.5cm (Base)
Weight: 31.61 kg
Material: Copper Body, Gold and Acrylic Painting, Gemstones
Mahakala Bernakchen, or "The Black Cloak Mahakala," is a prominent protector deity, particularly significant in the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. He is a wrathful manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of Compassion, taking on this fierce form to subdue obstacles and negativity that hinder spiritual progress. Bernakchen is often depicted with one face and two arms, wielding a ritual chopper and skull cup, symbolizing the cutting through of ignorance and the transformation of defilements into wisdom. His role is to guard the Dharma and its practitioners.