
Jing Wen
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A GOLD DAMASCENED IRON RITUAL FLAYING KNIFE (KARTRIKA)
EASTERN TIBET, DERGE, 15TH/16TH CENTURY
藏東 更慶鎮 十五/十六世紀 銅鋄金鉞刀
As a quintessential attribute to wrathful tantric deities, the kartrika, symbolizes the power to sever obstacles and cut through ignorance and delusion. Typically constructed of a vajra finial, a handle and a bladed which descends from the mouth of a makara, signifying the tantric methodology of the union of wisdom and skillful means. Another damascened example with script across the blade is illustrated on HAR 88430.
Published:
Ramon Prats, et.al., Monasterios y lamas del Tibet, Madrid, Fundación "La Caixa", 2000, p.100, no.12.
Exhibited:
Monasterios y lamas del Tibet, Fundación "La Caixa", Madrid, November 2000-January 2001.
Provenance:
Spink & Son Ltd., London, 1990s