An early 20th century Sino-Tibetan gilt bronze of a seated Mahakala,?the wrathful Diety having a crown of five skulls*, fashioned with hair flowing upwards, gaping mouth exposing fangs, and garland of severed heads, with four arms holding a chopper and skull cap to heart and lasso to upper left arm**, set various cabochon stones, modelled with a mount behind which would originally have held an attached flaming Mandorla (probably of painted wood), lacking lotus plinth. Height approx 27cm, complete with a quantity of prayer scrolls found inside***
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*Mahakala is always represented with five skulls, representing the transmutation of the five negative afflictions (Kleshas) into the five wisdoms.
** The four armed manifestation of Mahakala representing the fully enlightened Bodhisattva and chief Dharmapala (Guardian protector of the Dharma).?
***Probably being a part of the Mahakala Tantra.