Fine Quality Oxidized Copper Alloy with Silver Plated 7" Akash Yogini on Mandala Statue

Akash Yogini on Mandala Statue

 Akash Yogini – The Knowledge Holder

Vidyadhari, the Knowledge Holder, manifests as one of the four principal aspects of Vajrayogini in the Newar Buddhist tradition, where she is commonly known as Bijeshwori Devi, or Akash Yogini, the Sky or space going aspect of the goddess Vajrayogini. The Bijeshwori temple in Kathmandu is situated above the western bank of the Bishnumati River on the road to Swyambhu and its Newar name is derived from Vidhyeshvari, meaning the Wisdom Goddess. The presiding goddess of the temples is specifically associated with the Indian Mahasiddha Maitripa, who practiced and attained the realization of this flying aspect of Vajrayogini so she is also known as Maitri-Dakini or Maitri-Khechari.

Gestures and Attributes

Akash Yogini is depicted very much the say way as Vajrayogini except in flying posture with her right leg bent back ward and left leg stretched upward.

Akash Yogini has a red-colored body which shines with a brilliance like that of a fire at the end of an aeon, symbolizing the blazing of her inner fire which destroys all delusion. Like Vajrayogini; she also has three eyes, symbolizing her ability to see everything in the past, present, and future. She looks up toward the Pure Land of the Dakinis, indicating that she leads her followers to high attainments, including the attainment of great bliss. Her right hand, outstretched and pointing downwards, holds a curved knife known as Kartika marked with a Vajra on top, representing her power to cut the continuum of the delusions and obstacles of all living beings. Her left hand, held aloft, contains a skull cup filled with blood, which symbolizes her experience of the clear light of bliss, and her victory over death.

Her left shoulder supports a Khatanga marked with a Vajra, indicating that she is never separated from her consort Heruka. She is in the prime of her youth and her beautiful hair hangs freely down her back, symbolizing that she is free from the fetters of self-grasping. Her headdress is adorned with five human skulls which represent Akash Yogini's purified aggregates. Her purified inner winds are symbolized by her long necklace of fifty human skulls. She stands in the center of a blazing fire of exalted wisdom, and she is supported by a lotus symbolizing the complete purity of her body, speech, and mind.

About this Sculpture

This exquisitely crafted statue, portraying Akash Yogini, is a testament to the artistry and precision of master artisans. Expertly sculpted from Copper Alloy using the lost wax method, the statue undergoes a meticulous hand-carving process before being subjected to an oxidation treatment with Silver Plating. This results in a luxurious and sensuous finish that elevates its aesthetic appeal.

Every detail, from the ornaments, necklaces, armlets, and anklets to the intricately carved frame behind the statue, is executed with precision and care. The Akash Jogini figure stands on a Mandala base adorned with a captivating design. The three encircles, featuring a skull circle in the innermost, Vajra circles in the middle, and winding vines in the outer circle, contribute to the symbolic richness of the sculpture.

The Mandala itself rests on a beautifully hand-carved design of three skulls, enhancing the overall beauty of the statue. The combination of oxidation and silver plating not only enriches the appearance but also brings the statue to life.

Crafted in Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the Shakya clan, recognized among the world's best, this sculpture embodies a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques employed have been passed down through generations, adding a profound historical and cultural significance to this exceptional piece.