A pair of Chitipati – "Lords of the charnel grounds"
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Emporium
Orientation 1
Display 1

ABS 302

 Code: ABS 302

  Country: Mongolia

  Style: Khalkhas of Outer Mongolia

  Date: 1700 - 1800

  Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 37

  Materials: Wood, with remains of painted decoration

Citipati - the masters of the charnel grounds

Often appearing as a pair, the Citipati represent the union of wisdom (feminine) with compassion (masculine). They support the contemplation of practitioners on the fleeting nature of life and the impermanence of the worldly matters, helping them to maintain a distance from their passionate attachments to the things and experiences of this world. As wrathful deities, they instil fear among the enemies of the Dharma. These enemies are not primarily external beings, but first of all internal attitudes such as destructive passions and negative thoughts. As protectors, the Citipati are part of Mahakala's entourage.