This Tsa Tsa depicts the Bodhisattva Vajrapani, known as »Chagna Dorje«
ཕྱག་ན་རྡོ་རྗེ། inTibetan.
Dating back to the 11th century, it is one of the earliest surviving Tibetan Tsa Tsas. Very few examples from this early period of Tibetan history remain. This example is in excellent condition, with only minimal signs of wear on the face and left hand of Vajrapani. The oval protruding edge, which completely encloses and protects the inner impression without any gaps, has certainly also prevented more serious damage.
Iconographically, this representation differs considerably from later Tsa Tsa of this Dharmapala. A comparison with the development of Vajrapani iconography since the 11th century confirms its age.
Vajrapani stands on a single tier lotus throne beneath which a Tibetan inscription is depicted. His raised right arm holds a vajra. In his left hand, he holds his second attribute: the noose. This symbolises the restraint of passions, delusions and inner »demons« [e.g. hatred, greed and ignorance].
A stylized double vajra is visible next to his head above his shoulder. His tiger-skin loincloth is clearly visible. In thangka paintings and wall art, Vajrapani is always depicted surrounded by a ring of fire. This detail is nowhere to be found on this tsa tsa. Perhaps it was not possible to depict this wreath clearly. Instead, there are two highly stylised wavy symbols on either side of him that resemble a ring of fire.
He is completely surrounded by a string of pearls. A wave-like decoration extends from the outside to it. Tsa Tsas were commonly used to fill stupas. The small, round, white spot visible at the top right was probably created when the Tsa Tsa was deposited in a whitewashed stupa.
Vajrapani is a complex deity with various forms. In early Buddhist scriptures, he is depicted as a companion of the Buddha. He can be recognized by the vajra he holds in his right hand. He is usually encountered in his wrathful form, in which he acts as a powerful protector and remover of obstacles.
Due to his wrathful appearance, he is often mistakenly classified as a Dharmapala, or protector of Buddhist teachings. In fact, however, he belongs to the Bodhisattva group.
Vajrapani is said to be the last Buddha to appear in this world, representing the combined power of all Buddhas. He is depicted alongside Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri as one of the three heavenly bodhisattvas, archangel-like protective deities who embody the power [Vajrapani], compassion [Avalokiteshvara], and wisdom [Manjushri] of all Buddhas of the past, present, and future..
| More Explanation |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Measurements: | 3.3 x 3 x 1.3" | 8.3 x 7.6 x 3.4 cm |
| Price: | 341 $ | 285 € |
| Shipment: | Parcel Service from Germany |
| Material: | Burned Clay |
| Age: | 11th cent., |
| Preservation: | History |
| High resolution: | Display [0.9 MB, 2280 x 2454 px.] |
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