A Thangka artist from Nepal hand-paints a Mahakala Painting on cotton canvas.
Weight
100 Grams
Size
51 x 73 cm
Material
Cotton Canvas, Mixed Color
Iconography of Mahakala
Mahakala is usually depicted as black, signifying that all names and forms are absorbed into him. This color also symbolizes the ultimate reality and transcendence of all forms, as it represents the total absence of color.
The most notable variation in Mahakala’s manifestations and depictions is in the number of arms, but other details can vary as well. For instance, the two-armed Mahakala was transformed from the first Buddha, Ardhalma, and is worshiped for his spiritual wisdom. The four-armed Mahakala was transformed from the Sambhogakaya Buddha. The six-armed Mahakala comes in two forms: one white and one black. His white form helps one attain riches and long life.
