The
Five Dhyani Buddhas or Great Buddhas of Wisdom are central features of Tibetan
Buddhist practice and iconography. This particular collection of dhyani statuary
from 19th century Tibet is finely cast with a high-hand finish. The style is reminiscent
of the 14th century East Indian statuary in the simplicity and elegance of the
lines. Each of these statues has a particularly beatific countenance, a youthful
suppleness and a fluidity in the body and limbs coupled with the deities intrinsic
wisdom and transcendence. Each of the Buddhas (except for Vairocana) holds a medicine
bowl. Vairocana’s hands are in a teaching mudra.
The
five dhyani Buddhas are as follows:
Vairocana
is known as the Supreme Buddha, the Radiant One. He represents all of the qualities
of Dhyani Buddhas and is depicted in the Center. His color is white and he is
thought to embody the teaching aspects of the Buddha. Vairocana has the ability
to transmute ignorance and delusion into wisdom.