Vaishravana,
Heavenly King of the North, who became the celestial Dharma King early on in Buddhism.
He is a popular God of Wealth, the protector of dharma greatly worshipped in Tibet.
Stylistically
and characteristically common with a number of Vaishravana exhibited in the 18th
and 19th century Tibetan sculptures, this gold gilded Vaishravana imparts strength
and vigor no less. The face of the God of Wealth is calm and dignified, he is
dressed in armor, holding a mongoose in his left, and a victory banner in his
right which is now missing. Vaishravana is seated sideways on a howling snow lion
above a rectangular base. There are seventeen double lotus petals on the base
that do not extend completely around. The back of the base is engraved with intricate
motifs. The statue has been cast in one piece. It is closed with a large double
vajra copper plate. The statue is very heavy, which indicates all original objects
of ritual blessing remain sealed within.