Hand Carved Buddhist Tibetan Ritual Bernagchen Mahakala Gold Gilded Hand Face Painted Copper Statue

Bernagchen Mahakala Statue

 Bernagchen Mahakala – The Protector of the Karma Kagyu School

This protective deity is described as figures possessing stout bodies, and short but thick and strong limbs. His flaming hair, decorated with a crown of skulls, rises from his forehead, while a circle of flames dance around him. His face possesses a typical wrathful expression. The mouth is contorted to an angry smile from its corners protrude long fangs. The protruding, bloodshot eyes have an angry and staring expression and usually a third eye is visible in the middle of the forehead.

Gestures and Attributes

In his right hand, he holds a chopper, which symbolizes the cutting through of negative patterns such as aggression, hatred, and ignorance. In his left hand, he holds a skull cup, a ritual element typically filled with blood or human brain matter. He is seen standing on the corpse of two human bodies, thus symbolizing the death of negativities and the complete uprooting of negative patterns to such a point that, like a dead body, they will not come to life.

Iconography

The two-armed Mahakala called Bernagchen is a protector of the Karma Kagyu School. It is often thought to be the primary protector, but it is actually the main protector of the Karmapas specifically.

About this Sculpture

This exquisite Bernagchen Mahakala statue is a testament to the unparalleled skill of master artisans from the Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal. Crafted from copper alloy using the esteemed lost wax method, the sculpture is a fine example of precision and artistry.

Adorned with a layer of 24-karat gold, the Mahakala stands in a fearful form atop a lotus throne, radiating a wrathful presence. The typical wrathful expression on his face adds authenticity to the portrayal. The robes and ornaments, meticulously hand-carved, showcase intricate detailing, a hallmark of the Shakya clan's mastery.

The combination of gold gilding, hand-painted facial features, and red accents on the copper creates a rich and sensuous aesthetic, truly bringing the sculpture to life. This fine piece is not just a work of art; it's a manifestation of cultural heritage and spiritual significance.

Individually handcrafted by the Shakya clan's master artisans, considered among the world's best, this Bernagchen Mahakala sculpture reflects a centuries-old tradition. These craftsmen, modern heirs to their ancestors, continue to pass down fine metalworking techniques from generation to generation, ensuring the preservation of sacred art for use in temples and monasteries.