A hug - Brass, Ormolu - Nepal - 20th century

This bronze sculpture from the mid-20th century represents the traditional Buddhist tantric depiction of Yab-Yum (literally “Father-Mother” in Tibetan). This iconography, typical of the sacred art of Tibet and Nepal, depicts the divine union of two deities from the Vajrayāna Buddhist pantheon:
• The Yab (the Father): The principal consenting male deity (often identified with Vajrasattva or Vajradhara), seated in the meditative lotus position (padmasana) or in half-lotus.
• The Yum (the Mother): The female consort (Shakti or Prajna), closely entwined with the body of the male deity, with her legs wrapped around his waist.
Symbolism
The embrace is not merely erotic; it is purely spiritual and philosophical. It symbolizes the inseparable union of two key concepts for attaining Enlightenment:
1. Compassion and the Means (Upaya): Represented by the masculine principle.
2. Cosmic Wisdom (Prajna): Represented by the feminine principle.
Both figures wear traditional headgear and diadems finely adorned, attributed to Bodhisattvas or celestial deities. The dark patina of the metal fusion shows signs of time-worn wear, with golden highlights at the most prominent reliefs.
The Yum supports with one arm a sacred cup (probably a kapala or skull cup), a fundamental element in esoteric Buddhist rituals.
Dimensions cm H 18 x 13 x 11 and weight g 1,926
Good condition.
Insured shipping with professional packaging.