Mahabhairava
Description
Bhairava, a popular god in Nepal, is the ferocious form of Shiva. He assumes this form to destroy evil. Large and impressive heads of Bhairava adorning the entrances of shrines are a typical feature of Nepali religious architecture. Such huge heads of Bhairava, particularly those made of wood, are also used for ceremonial purposes.
This image has three glaring eyes, the third being in the middle of the forehead. The large ears are elongated and the headdress is set with skulls. A snake is coiled around the neck and near the ears.
During the Indra festival in September, the devotees offer rice wine or thvam to Bhairava. The wine dribbles from a tube in his mouth and the devotees then enjoy this holy brew. The inscription on the image reads:
“The image of Shri Shri Shri Mahabhairava was erected and consecrated by Divya Simha and his mother Lalita.”
Collection
Himalayan Art
Object Type
Sculpture
Material
Wood
Schools/Culture/Period
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Technique
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Date
Nepal Samvat 812 - 1692 CE
Location
Nepal
Dimension
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