Mahakala

Panjaranatha Mahakala, 16th-17th century (Tibet), clay with pigments (Rubin Museum of Art). A conversation with Dr. Karl Debreczeny, Senior Curator, Rubin Museum of Art and Dr. Beth Harris.
Rubin Museum senior curator Dr. Karl Debreczeny and Dr. Beth Harris of Smarthistory examine a sculpture of Mahakala, one of the eight great wrathful dharma protectors in Vajrayana Buddhism-a remover of obstacles, both internal and external.
The Rubin Museum of Art has teamed up with Smarthistory to bring you an ‘up-close’ look at select objects from the Rubin’s preeminent collection of Himalayan art. Featuring conversations with senior curators and close-looking at art, this video series is an accessible introduction to the art and material culture of the Tibetan, Himalayan, and Inner Asian regions. Learn about the living traditions and art-making practices of the Himalayas from the past to today.
Learn more about Mahakala on Project Himalayan Art, a resource from the Rubin for learning about Himalayan, Tibetan, and Inner Asian art and cultures:
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About the Rubin
The Rubin is a global museum dedicated to sharing Himalayan art through a dynamic digital platform, participatory experiences, exhibitions, and partnerships. Inspired and informed by Himalayan art, the Rubin invites people to contemplate the human experience and deepen connections with the world around them in order to expand awareness, enhance well-being, and cultivate compassion.
View the Himalayan Art Up Close series: / playlist
Subscribe to the Rubin Museum RUclips channel: / @rubinmuseum
Images: Panjaranatha Mahakala; Tibet; 16th-17th century; clay; Rubin Museum of Art; C2002.27.3 (HAR65134)

[@CheifR0cka]

I absolutely love this channel. Often I find myself wishing I could see detailed photos of all these incredible, ancient objects. Then I found you guys. Dream come true 😊

[@smarthistoryvideos]

We try our best to take photographs that bring the work to life, so we appreciate your comment. Thank you.

[@CheifR0cka]

@@smarthistoryvideos Well you guys are certainly exceeding expectations!

[@mariadelgado4393]

Enjoying your Mahakala. Very powerful! Thank you. Keep on with the great work. 4:25 ❤❤❤

[@cupidastrology]

Mahakala!! So happy you looked over this piece 💋

[@Marjorie-yt7pb]

😮fascinating , many thanks !

[@victorianidetch]

Nicely done!

[@Blaze92NL]

Love this! Thank you 🙏🏼

[@jayfinocchiaro389]

Great!

[@Sasha0927]

I hate that I thought of Akuma from Street Fighter, but I did! I wonder if there's any link between the two.
Unlike Akuma though, who is evil to the core, I was surprised to learn that Mahakala represents wisdom, compassion, and protection. That wouldn't have been my hundredth guess.
His association with military prowess was much less surprising.
Stamp of clay with gold paint or no.. the object at the end makes a striking impression - especially once you understand more about the symbolism it contains.

[@ecurewitz]

Inter. Thanks

[@pyewackett5]

Sakya is the more modern