Tantric Enlightened Being (Vajrayogini) Queen of Bliss (Dechen Gyalmo)
18th century
Medium
Gilt bronze with gemstones and pigments
Dimensions
22.4 × 10.9 × 6.2 cm (8 13/16 × 4 1/4 × 2 7/16 in.)
Classification
bronze
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
144898
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Dechen Gyalmo (Queen of Bliss) is a female Buddha more specifically known as a vajrayogini, or a female yogi, who has attained enlightenment through the practice of yoga and by following the tantric (Vajrayana) Buddhist path. Her aspect is somewhat horrific, as she has three eyes, raised eyebrows and bares her teeth. She is naked except for a bone apron strung from her waist and swaying ornaments on her upper body, denoting her energized state. Her attributes include a double-headed drum (damaru...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...