The Wrathful Protector Mahakala in a Six-Armed Form: Folio from a Manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom)

India, Bihar or West Bengal

Not on view

These manuscript paintings do not illustrate the adjacent doctrinal text but instead bring auspiciousness and act to protect the collected body of Buddhist writings. As Avalokiteshvara’s ferocious manifestation, Mahakala (The Great Black One) rids the world of corruption and protects the monastic community as well as the Buddha’s teachings (the dharma). In this early depiction, he crosses his arms to symbolize a vajra, wields a sword, and holds his right hand in a gesture of boon giving (varada mudra).



On view from March 27–September 19, 2021

The Wrathful Protector Mahakala in a Six-Armed Form: Folio from a Manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom), Ink and color on palm leaf, India, Bihar or West Bengal

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The Wrathful Protector Mahakala in a Six-Armed Form: Folio from a Manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom), Ink and color on palm leaf, India, Bihar or West Bengal
The Wrathful Protector Mahakala in a Six-Armed Form: Folio from a Manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom), Ink and color on palm leaf, India, Bihar or West Bengal

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