ANTIQUE BRONZE/BRASS VAJRA – TIBET - EARLY 20th C.

This vajra originates from Tibet.

Vajra in Sanskrit or Dorje in Tibetan has both the meanings of “thunderbolt” and “diamond.” Like the thunderbolt, the vajra cleaves through ignorance. It can cut off all kinds of troubles, destroy obstacles and demons of all kinds. Like the diamond, the vajra destroys but is itself indestructible. The thunderbolt was employed by the 8th-century Tantric master Padmasambhava to conquer the non-Buddhist deities of Tibet.

In ritual use the vajra is frequently employed in conjunction with the bell (Sanskrit ghaṇṭā, Tibetan drilbu), the various mudrās, when correctly executed, having considerable methaphysical power. The vajra (symbolizing the male principle, fitness of action, compassion) is held in the right hand and the bell (symbolizing the female principle, intelligence, the perfection of wisdom) in the left hand. Together, the Ghanta and Dorje symbolize the perfect union of the wisdom and compassion necessary to achieve enlightenment. Traditionally they are used by monks, nuns, and lay people during various rituals and practices.

The vajra is mostly fashioned out of brass or bronze (also of iron, bone, rock crystal, silver …). It has usually four prongs at each end curving around the central fifth to form a lotus-bud shape. A seven- or nine-pronged vajra is less commonly used.

This vajra has four prongs (five prongs with the central fifth), which as usual come from the mouth of a makara. These four makara heads are finely cast.

Age: early 20th C.

Dimensions: 9.8 cm long, 3.8 cm wide.

Weight: 102 gr.

Condition: The varja is in good condition taking into account its high age. Good signs of long time ritual practice and high age patina. Look carefully to the pictures which are an integral part of the description. Consequently any damage or repair to the object not mentioned in the text, but visible in the photos, are considered to be described.

The description and explanation of the item have been made in good faith and to the best of my knowledge. The dimensions are measured manually and are therefore approximate. Colors may differ slightly from the original colors. This is a private sale as I am not a professional seller; I am a collector who liquidates his collection. Therefore, I do not accept returns unless in very exceptional cases. In any case, the return costs are to be paid by the buyer. I hope you will understand this. Please don’t hesitate to request before purchasing all information you need. Your satisfaction and positive feedback is very important to me. If you have any problems with the item or services, please feel free to contact me first before you leave negative feedback. I will do my best to solve any problems.

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