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Chakrasamvara with His Consort Vajravarahi

1450–1500
Not on view
This powerful depiction of Chakrasamvara embracing his yogini consort Vajravarahi is a highly energized visualization, such as would have been experienced by an advanced tantric master. These are key deities in the Vajrayana system, uniting two of the most powerful ideas in esoteric Buddhism, wisdom, embodied in Vajravarahi, and compassion, the essence of Chakrasamvara. His name, which translates as Circle of Bliss, embodies the powerful union of these two fundamentals tenets of Buddhism. This is arguably one of the finest representations of this subject to have survived from medieval Tibet.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Chakrasamvara with His Consort Vajravarahi
  • Period: Sakya Order
  • Date: 1450–1500
  • Culture: Central Tibet
  • Medium: Distemper on cotton
  • Dimensions: Image: 16 × 13 1/4 in. (40.6 × 33.7 cm)
    Framed: H. 20 1/4 in. (51.4 cm); W. 15 7/8 in. (40.3 cm); D. 2 in. (5.1 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Zimmerman Family Collection, Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation and the Zimmerman Family Gifts, 2017
  • Object Number: 2017.371
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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Vaishravana, Guardian of Buddhism and Protector of Riches, Distemper on cloth, Tibet
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Mahakala, Protector of the Tent
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The Arhat Vajraputra, Unidentified artist Sino-Tibetan, 15th century, Distemper on cotton, Tibet
The Arhat Vajraputra
Unidentified artist
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White Tara and Green Tara, Distemper on cloth, Western Tibet (Guge)
White Tara and Green Tara
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