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The Buddhist Deity Chakrasamvara
The Buddhist Deity Chakrasamvara

The Buddhist Deity Chakrasamvara

Place of OriginTibet
Date1800 - 1900
DynastyQing dynasty (1644 - 1911)
MaterialsColors on cotton
DimensionsH. 26 5/8 in x W. 18 1/8 in, H. 67.6 cm x W. 46 cm (image); H. 45 3/4 in x W. 26 3/4 in, H. 116 cm x W. 68 cm (overall)
Credit LineTransfer from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Gift of Katherine Ball
Object numberB72D52
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on view
More Information

The figure at the center of mandala is often a fierce deity visualized in meditations. Here, the central deity is Chakrasamvara, who appears in sexual union with his partner. Together, they symbolize the union of opposites that occurs in advanced states of concentration.

The imagery in this painting is so powerful that it is said to grant enlightenment in this very life. Yet it is also dangerous to the unprepared. Accordingly, a layer of eerie pink cemetery grounds serve to seal this meditation and its potentially disturbing imagery from the outside world.