|
23. A miniature thangka painting depicting Nilavarahi Tibetan or Mongolian 19th century ink, pigment and gold on prepared cloth Dimensions: 3 1/8� x 4� (8 x 10 cm) |
The blue bodied emanation of Vajravarahi (the Diamond Sow �identified by the sow�s head in her hair) is known as Nilavarahi � the easterly aspect of the dakini � the bestower of wisdom. Vajravarahi in all her manifestations is an important deity for tantric initiation, especially for new initiates. Wearing a tiger skin and a flayed human skin, she also wears a garland of severed heads and a plethora of ornaments, including bone jewellery and a skull diadem. Vajravarahi dances in the ardhaparyanka posture, balancing her left foot on a prostrate naked male resting on the orb of the sun above a lotus. She brandishes a diamond chopper in her right hand while holding a blood-filled skull cup in her left. In the crook of her left arm is the tantric staff (khatvanga). This is the form invoked in rituals performed for bewitching men and women (vasyavidhi). Above her is a diminutive image of Machig Lapdron, while around her are further emanations of herself. Blessing to reverse. |