Artwork

Painted Banner (Thangka) of Skull-Cup Bearing (Kapâladhara) Hevajra

Painted Banner (Thangka) of Skull-Cup Bearing (Kapâladhara) Hevajra is an unspecified painting by the Yōga artist Unknown. It dates from 1604 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. This thangka painting depicts Hevajra, a Buddhist deity, in its Kapâladhara form.

About this work

Overview

This thangka painting depicts Hevajra, a Buddhist deity, in its Kapâladhara form. Characterized by multiple limbs and a fierce demeanor, the figure embodies tantric Buddhist iconography.

Subject & Meaning

As Kapâladhara Hevajra, the deity holds a skull cup, symbolizing the transcendence of worldly attachments and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment through tantric practices.

Technique & Style

Executed with intricate detail and vibrant colors, the painting showcases skilled craftsmanship. The predominantly yellow and orange figure contrasts with a deep blue background, set against a red and gold accented mandorla (red circle) and corner motifs.

Context

Thangkas like this served as portable, devotional objects in Tibetan Buddhism, used in meditation and ritual practices to invoke the deity's presence and embody its attributes.