By the Light of Butterlamps

Introduction
Overview
Function
Iconography
Creation
Vajrayana Buddhism

Dorje Legpa Buryat

Tsakli, Dorje Legpa Buryat
Mongol, Late 18th/Early 19th Century
Mineral Pigment on Fabric

This depicts another tsakli with complex iconography. Dorje Legpa is one of the three Protectors of the Nyingma Order, the oldest order of Tibetan Buddhism which dates from the 8th century. In this particular emanation, he is known as the "dark blacksmith" and is recognized as an "oath bound protective deity." His right hand holds the vajra-hammer, representing the pulverization of vow breakers and protection against dualistic rationale. In his left hand he holds a tiger skin bellows with which he blows all enemies into dust. He is shown here on his mount or vehicle, a goat with intertwined horns. These horns symbolize non-duality and the binding together of relative and absolute truths.

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