figure with red skin wearing a gold hat, riding on a black horse; 4 figures floating on clouds at top; 8 small figures on horseback and riding other animals at bottom; green silk cover

Pehar (Worldly Protector Deity), late 17th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Protective deities are represented in visually and symbolically complex artworks, such as this scroll painting. Within a fantastic landscape of deities and spirits, Pehar valiantly gallops, holding a vajra (lightning bolt representing enlightenment) and a skull cup (representing the conquest of ignorance) in his quest to protect the Buddhist faith. The black background symbolizes hate, which, through wisdom and compassion, is transformed into luminous deities of enlightened bliss.

Details
Title
Pehar (Worldly Protector Deity)
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2001.77
Curator Approved

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figure with red skin wearing a gold hat, riding on a black horse; 4 figures floating on clouds at top; 8 small figures on horseback and riding other animals at bottom; green silk cover