Crafted in Nepal using the lost-wax method, this copper statue depicts Vajrasattva in union with his consort. The figures are fully gilded in 24k gold using the mercury gilding technique. High-depth engravings texture the robes and ornaments, while the faces are painted in gold with precise details defining the expressions.

“Lama Vajrasattva in union with his consort, Dorje Nyema, symbolizing the union of appearance and emptiness. … [H]e holds a vajra—an emblem of the qualities of absolute nature—in his right hand…. In his left hand… a bell, symbol of transcendent knowledge. … In her left hand she holds a skullcup filled with blood, symbolizing transcendence of samsaric attachment. In her right hand she holds a curved knife (drigug), which symbolizes self-clinging cut by selflessness.

The pair are adorned with the five silken garments … [and] the eight jewels of the peaceful sambhogakaya deities….

Their forms express the nine signs of wisdom bodies: pliancy as a sign that ignorance has been purified; perfect proportions as a sign that anger has been purified; well-toned musculature as a sign that desire has been purified; delicacy as a sign that pride has been purified; youthfulness as a sign that jealousy has been purified… [and] splendor and blessing as a sign of having vanquished all obscurations and obstacles.”

— Jane Tromge, Ngondro Commentary, pp. 113–114

Details

• Height: 13.5 in (34 cm)
• Width: 10.5 in (27 cm)
• Length/Depth: 8.5 in (22 cm)
• Base metal: Copper
• Finish: 24k full-gold gilding
• Origin: Nepal
• Artist: Saroj Shakya