Artwork

Mandala of Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi

Mandala of Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi, by Unknown, unspecified, 1404
Mandala of Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi, by Unknown, unspecified, 1404

Mandala of Chakrasamvara and Vajravarahi is an unspecified painting by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1404 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This painting is a mandala, a diagrammatic representation of a palace-like structure viewed from above, used as a tool for meditation in tantric Buddhism.

Subject & Meaning

The mandala depicts Chakrasamvara, a four-headed, 12-armed deity, in union with his consort Vajravarahi, symbolizing the attainment of enlightenment through the visualization of sacred spaces and overcoming fear of death.

Technique & Style

The painting is characterized by intricate details and vibrant colors, featuring numerous figures and symbols arranged in a complex circular composition.

Context

As an aid to meditation, the mandala's various gates and levels represent stages in the practitioner's mental journey toward enlightenment.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.