Prajnana Dharmapala Statue | Oxidized Copper Antique Figurine
This Prajnana Dharmapala statue, embodying the powerful form of Shakya Mahakala, stands as a commanding symbol of spiritual protection and reverence. Handcrafted in Nepal from a solid oxidized copper body with a rich antique finish, it measures 41.5 cm (16.3”) in height with a base of 7.9 cm (20 cm) and weighs 5.73 kg. The deep, dark tones accentuate its fierce yet compassionate energy, making it a striking focal point for meditation, devotion, or sacred display, reflecting masterful Nepalese craftsmanship and a profound sense of spiritual authority.
Panjarnatha Mahakala is depicted in a powerful, wrathful form, embodying the fierce yet compassionate activity of enlightened protection. His body is shown in jet-black or deep blue, symbolizing the limitless expanse of the Dharmakaya, while his stance—firmly standing upon a corpse—represents the complete subjugation of ego, ignorance, and worldly attachment. His expression is intensely wrathful, with three omniscient eyes, bared fangs, and flaming hair, signifying his piercing awareness and the forceful destruction of negativities. Crowning his head is a garland of five skulls, symbolizing the transformation of the five poisons into the five wisdoms of a Buddha. In his primary hands, he holds a kartika (curved ritual knife) to sever delusion and a kapala (skull cup) representing the transmutation of defilements into wisdom. Across his arms rests the distinctive Gandhi staff, used to summon and command protective forces for safeguarding the Dharma. Adorned with bone ornaments, a garland of severed heads, and a tiger-skin garment, and surrounded by a blazing halo of transformative fire, he stands as a supreme guardian deity whose fierce presence annihilates obstacles and supports the practitioner’s path to liberation.
Size: 16.3”/41.5cm (Height) x 7.9”/20cm (Base)
Weight: 5.73 kg
Material: Antique Finish, Oxidized Copper Body
Shakya Mahakala, the principal protector or Dharmapala in Tibetan Buddhism, represents the wrathful aspect of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. His fierce appearance is not malevolent but symbolizes the active, transformative power needed to overcome deep-seated mental afflictions and external obstacles. By embodying this intense protective energy, Shakya Mahakala safeguards the Dharma and practitioners, ensuring that wisdom is preserved and that those on the path to liberation can pursue enlightenment without hindrance.
