Armlet for an Image with Crossed Vajras

Nepal

Not on view

The crossed vajras at the center of this arm ornament indicate the cardinal directions, and a diamond marks the axis of the universe—a place of ultimate stability where the Buddha reached enlightenment. The gems, semiprecious stones, and coral convey ideas of purity and form a mosaic that evokes the heavens. On either side of the armlet in reddish coral are kirtimukhas, fierce faces that symbolize the relentless passage of time.

Armlet for an Image with Crossed Vajras, Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise, Nepal

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Armlet for an Image with Crossed Vajras, Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise, Nepal
Armlet for an Image with Crossed Vajras, Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise, Nepal
Armlet for an Image with Crossed Vajras, Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise, Nepal

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