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8. A firegilt repousse copper Cittimandala Tibet Circa 16th Century 32 x 26.5cm |
The superb mind- mandala depicting various deities seated on their lotus thrones within ten foliate scrolls terminating to a lotus blossom at the base. The upper register depicts multiple images of the deity Vajravidarana holding a heart-high visvavajra (double dorje) and bell – symbolising the destructive or cleansing power of the vajra. The vajravidarana cleansing ceremony is a powerful spiritual aid to expunge or tear asunder to release the mental and physical poisons lying at the root of suffering. To the left below this deity is Jina Yuddhajaya – one of the 35 Buddhas of Confession who embodies victory over the battles of the spirit, holding a coat of mail. To the corresponding right is Malya, holding his beaded necklace between his two hands. The upper inscription reads “East” while the lower enigmatically hints that ‘there is a reason’. For similar see ‘The Wheel of Time’ Barry Bryant and Namgyal Monastery p.62 |