Lot 38
Unusual Gilt Bronze Figure of White Vaishravana, Sino-Tibetan, 18th/19th Century
Lot 38 Details
Unusual Gilt Bronze Figure of White Vaishravana, Sino-Tibetan, 18th/19th Century
The crowned deity seated in lalitasana, holding a mongoose in one hand, sitting upon a flaming dragon, the empty right hand meant to hold a trident or banner, all supported by a beaded double lotus base
height 12.2" — 31 cm.
Estimate $3,000-$5,000
Additional Images
Provenance:
Private Collection Toronto.
Note:
Vaishravana, also known as Jambhala, is one of the four heavenly kings and is associated as the Buddhist god of wealth. Typically, the deity is depicted in his ‘yellow’ form, and shown riding a snow lion and holding a gold-spitting mongoose. The current example is ‘white’ Vaishravana and is riding a fierce dragon. White Vaishravana requires a specific ritual for those who practice his mantras. It involves pouring a light stream of water over his head, which is said to awaken the dragon.