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Symbolizing the energy associated with enlightenment, the vajra is often described as a bolt of lightning with the indestructible, luminescent quality of a diamond. Vajras like these examples are used in Esoteric Buddhist rituals in conjunction with mantras and hand gestures. On each end, the four prongs, representing the cardinal directions, surround a central spike marking the cosmic axis.
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Title: Vajra
Period: Central or Eastern Javanese period
Date: ca. 10th century
Culture: Indonesia, Java
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: L. 5 5/16 in. (13.5 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Samuel Eilenberg Collection, Gift of Samuel Eilenberg, 1987
Object Number: 1987.142.297
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