FINE 18th C. CHINESE TIBETAN QING DYNASTY PERIOD GILT BRONZE THREE BUDDHA DEITIES MANDALA.
In the center is Vajrabhairava with the consort Vajra Vetali.
Bhairava is 9 faces, 34 hands and 16 legs. The main face is that of a buffalo, with a face above and the slightly angry face of Manjushri placed on top. Flames shoot from the tips of the horns. Each face has three eyes, bared fangs and frightful expressions; hair flows upward like flames. The first pair of hands hold a curved knife and skull cup to the heart embracing the consort. The remaining hands hold a multitude of weapons with the last pair holding in addition the outstretched hide of an elephant. He is adorned with interlaced bone ornaments, a necklace of snakes and a long necklace of fifty heads. The consort, Vajra Vetali, with one face and two hands holds a skull cup and embraces Bhairava. The right legs are bent pressing down on a man, animals and various gods. The left legs are extended straight and press upon eight birds and various gods; standing above a sun disc and lotus completely surrounded by the flames of pristine awareness.
To the right is Palden Magzor Gyalmo, with one face and two hands; riding a mule.
To the left is Yama Dharmaraja, with the head of a buffalo, holding a bone stick in the right hand and a lasso aloft with the left. He rides on the back of a black buffalo; surrounded by flame. Yama is the special protector for the central figure, Vajrabhairava.
All set atop three branch scrolling lotus stems, supported by large oval lotus throne.
Surface wear to gilding and trace of lacquered overall, light tarnish covers the surface while still giving off a soft glow as the light hits the exterior. Excellent detail and design perfectly executed by ancient craftsmen. Measurements: Height: 13 3/8" Width: 15 3/4"PROVENANCE:Pineville-Charlotte, North Carolina, private collector, by inheritance. Believed to be purchased from OLIVOTTI BRO'S, 1191 Broadway, New York, N Y. and/or, of 145 Tremont ST. Boston, MA. During 1916-1924.