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Yama Dharmaraja

18th–19th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Yama Dharmaraja conquers death and offers an escape from the cycle of rebirth. Terrifying in appearance, like Mahakala, he holds a skull cup and vajra-tipped flaying knife, trampling a demoness. Yama Dharmaraja is the inner protector of the Vajrabhairava tantras, which are especially significant for the Gelug sect that flourished in Mongolia. The distinctive rendering of his skull coronet and the garland of severed heads that hangs below his belly typifies later Buddhist sculpture from the region.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Yama Dharmaraja
  • Date: 18th–19th century
  • Culture: Mongolia
  • Medium: Wood, metal, and pigments
  • Dimensions: Approximate: H. 10 in. (25.4 cm)
  • Classification: Wood
  • Credit Line: Lent by The Kronos Collections
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art