Vajradakini,
her name can be literally translated into Thunderbolt Skywalker or Diamond Skywalker.
She is one of the three female form of Buddha archetypes popular particularly
in Tibetan Buddhism.
Vajradakini
and or Vajrayogini are embodiments of celestial females who possess Buddhist wisdom
as her male counterpart symbolizes compassion. She is instrumental in spiritual
enlightenment for many Tantric Buddhist Practitioners. Her prominent position
in Buddhism indicates that enlightenment is indeed beyond sexual identity. Vajradakini
is particularly venerated in Vajrayana Buddhism.
Dancing
in Ardhaparyankasana ( Ardhaparyanka ), the naked three eyed terrific deity Vajradakini
is ornamented with bell-tasseled strands of jewels. With only one foot on the
ground, swaying strands of ornaments and delicately curved flowing sash, her angular
and protruding posture sets her in motion in the cosmic dance.
The
face of Vajradakini is stunningly beautiful. She is realized with bared teeth
and intense stare. Her victorious grin illustrates a vigorous spirit and a terrific
force in which she tames the egotism in men. In her left hand, she holds a skull
bowl full of blood from which she transforms hatred into compassion. Her extended
right arm held high may have once held a vajra chopper.
The
Vajradakini depicted here is wild and free in spirit. She is vividly characterized
in the elegant naturalism of Tibetan Buddhist art culture. The fact that this
rare gilt wood sculpture remains largely unchanged from the original prototype
in the 14–15 century. We believe that she is a Tibeto Chinese carving considerably
over 150 years in age.