ABR 074
Code: ABR 074
Country: Tibet
Style:
Date: 1600 - 1800
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: Unknown
Materials: Brass and iron
Ritual hook
This ritual hook (ankusha) resembles the instrument used by mahouts to keep elephants under control. According to its Buddhist ritual functions, several half vajras are attached to its handle, and its blade springs from the mouth of the sea monster Makara. The hook is generally used as part of the power activities of tantric practices aimed at subduing and taming beings through splendour. It is most commonly held by red deities associated with these practices, such as the dakini Kurukulla or the deity Ganapati. He is the Buddhist version of Ganesh, the famous god with the elephant head.
The work is very refined and decorated with numerous gildings.
This ritual hook (ankusha) resembles the instrument used by mahouts to keep elephants under control. According to its Buddhist ritual functions, several half vajras are attached to its handle, and its blade springs from the mouth of the sea monster Makara. The hook is generally used as part of the power activities of tantric practices aimed at subduing and taming beings through splendour. It is most commonly held by red deities associated with these practices, such as the dakini Kurukulla or the deity Ganapati. He is the Buddhist version of Ganesh, the famous god with the elephant head.
The work is very refined and decorated with numerous gildings.