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Vairochana, the Supreme Transcendent Buddha

11th–12th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 252
Vairochana is the original of the five Transcendent Buddhas of Vajrayana Buddhism, identified by his hands held in bodhyagri mudra, an esoteric gesture denoting the zenith of the universe. Considered the primoridal Buddha, he is understood to reside at the center of Buddhist cosmology.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Vairochana, the Supreme Transcendent Buddha
  • Period: Thakuri period
  • Date: 11th–12th century
  • Culture: Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)
  • Medium: Gilt-copper alloy with gold paint and blue pigment
  • Dimensions: H. 7 1/2 in. (19 cm); W. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm); D. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 1991
  • Object Number: 1991.133
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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