Dharmapala Standing on a Lion

ca. 16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 253

Dharmapalas, defenders of the dharma, the Buddha’s teachings, represent a category of wrathful guardians essential to the Tibetan system of Buddhism. They are understood to be enlightened beings. This fearsome protector stands astride an equally expressive lion, warding off spiritual dangers.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Dharmapala Standing on a Lion
Date: ca. 16th century
Culture: Tibet
Medium: Stone with traces of gold paint, inlaid with turquoise
Dimensions: H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm); W. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm); D. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchase, Foundation of Fine Art of the Century Gift, 1985
Object Number: 1985.25
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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Sword (Ral gri), Iron, steel, gold, silver, Tibetan or Chinese — Sword (Ral gri)
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14th–16th century

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ca. 15th–16th century

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