Tibetan style Buddhist Phurba Ritual Implement - Copper - Nepal - 20th century





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Copper Phurba ritual implement in Tibetan style from Nepal, 20th century, about 18 cm high and 5 cm wide, attributed as in the style of a multi-headed wrathful deity, with fair condition.
Description from the seller
This is a ritual implement (Phurba) associated with Vajrakilaya in Tibetan Buddhism.
It stands as one of the core ritual implements of Tibetan Esoteric Buddhism; specifically, it is a multi-headed, three-faced Phurba, distinguished by its exquisite craftsmanship and an aura of profound, mystical religious power.
The Phurba (also known as the "Vajra Peg" or *Vajrakīla*) is a vital ritual implement for various schools of Tibetan Buddhism—particularly the Nyingma lineage. It symbolizes the subjugation of afflictions, the severance of demonic obstacles, and the purification of karma, and is frequently employed during spiritual practices, empowerments, or ceremonial rites.
Top: The five-pronged vajra shape represents the five wisdoms of the Buddha and is a typical symbol of Tibetan Buddhist ritual implements.
Main deity: A multi-layered, multi-headed wrathful deity, with the top layer being a three-faced wrathful king (such as Hayagriva or Vajrakilaya), surrounded by multi-faced bodhisattvas/protectors. The wrathful appearance symbolizes the subjugation of obstacles with powerful force.
Middle section: spherical bulge, fully carved with cloud and scroll patterns, symbolizing Mount Sumeru or the Dharma realm.
The lower section: The triangular cone-shaped blade is the iconic feature of the vajra, symbolizing the elimination of the three poisons (greed, anger, and ignorance), and also representing the purification of the three realms.
Base: Lotus petal patterned base with a triangular mortise in the center for securing the pestle. The lotus petals symbolize purity and enlightenment.
Material: The entire piece is cast in bronze, with a bronze patina on the surface, which is typical of Tibetan metal ritual implements.
Craftsmanship: Precision casting using the lost-wax method, with intricate details. The expression, crown, and decorations of the wrathful deity are clearly depicted, reflecting the superb level of Tibetan sculpture. Height: Approximately 18 cm.
This is a ritual implement (Phurba) associated with Vajrakilaya in Tibetan Buddhism.
It stands as one of the core ritual implements of Tibetan Esoteric Buddhism; specifically, it is a multi-headed, three-faced Phurba, distinguished by its exquisite craftsmanship and an aura of profound, mystical religious power.
The Phurba (also known as the "Vajra Peg" or *Vajrakīla*) is a vital ritual implement for various schools of Tibetan Buddhism—particularly the Nyingma lineage. It symbolizes the subjugation of afflictions, the severance of demonic obstacles, and the purification of karma, and is frequently employed during spiritual practices, empowerments, or ceremonial rites.
Top: The five-pronged vajra shape represents the five wisdoms of the Buddha and is a typical symbol of Tibetan Buddhist ritual implements.
Main deity: A multi-layered, multi-headed wrathful deity, with the top layer being a three-faced wrathful king (such as Hayagriva or Vajrakilaya), surrounded by multi-faced bodhisattvas/protectors. The wrathful appearance symbolizes the subjugation of obstacles with powerful force.
Middle section: spherical bulge, fully carved with cloud and scroll patterns, symbolizing Mount Sumeru or the Dharma realm.
The lower section: The triangular cone-shaped blade is the iconic feature of the vajra, symbolizing the elimination of the three poisons (greed, anger, and ignorance), and also representing the purification of the three realms.
Base: Lotus petal patterned base with a triangular mortise in the center for securing the pestle. The lotus petals symbolize purity and enlightenment.
Material: The entire piece is cast in bronze, with a bronze patina on the surface, which is typical of Tibetan metal ritual implements.
Craftsmanship: Precision casting using the lost-wax method, with intricate details. The expression, crown, and decorations of the wrathful deity are clearly depicted, reflecting the superb level of Tibetan sculpture. Height: Approximately 18 cm.

