Mahasiddha Kirapalapa

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 964

Operating outside monastic precincts, mahasiddhas were advanced tantric practitioners from all walks of society. Kirapalapa, shown here holding a sword and a shield, was a warrior-king before pursuing a path of nonviolence and compassion. Despite his fine dhoti and jewels, he is portrayed in the wilderness under a tree like an ascetic. Kirapalapa was initiated to the deity Chakrasamvara and, after twelve years of meditation under his yogi’s guidance, achieved a siddhi (attainment or knowledge).

Mahasiddha Kirapalapa, Terracotta, Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

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