Description:

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A wooden phurba (ritual dagger), a ceremonial tool in Vajrayana Buddhism. The top features standing figures, two holding implements like a phurba, trident, bell, and dorje. Below them are faces of Mahakala, the guardian deity, whose name means "Great Black One" or "Great Time." Cotton ribbons are tied around the handle. The blade is intricately carved with entwined snakes, weapons (bow, axe, trident, knife, mace), and a figure with an elephant trunk, possibly Ganesha. Derived from an ancient Vedic tool, the phurba's three blade sections symbolize its power to transform the "three poisons" - attachment, aversion, and ignorance - and unite the three spirit worlds. Size: 12" L x 2" W (30.5 cm x 5.1 cm); 12.75" H (32.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection

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#189383

  • Condition: Nice polished patina. Minor surface nicks, but otherwise intact and very good. Dust and mineral deposits in recessed areas.

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October 18, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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