Wrathful Form of the Goddess Saraswati (Magzor Gyalmo) or Palden Llamo
20th century
Medium
Silk tapestry (kesi)
Dimensions
60 × 41 cm (23 5/8 × 16 1/8 in.)
Classification
hanging scroll
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
144985
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Magzor Gyalmo, the Queen Who Repels Armies, is a Buddhist protector deity and one of the forms of Palden Lhamo (Shri Devi). She is also said to be a wrathful emanation of the goddess Sarasvati, and is associated with wisdom. Her most important role is as a primary protector of the Dalai Lamas and the Gelugpa Order. She appears here dark blue in color, with one head and two arms, and a face with three eyes. She wears a tiger skin and is adorned with a crown and garlands of skulls, signifying her ...
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...