An 19th Century or earlier tsakli depicting in mineral pigments the tiger faced Vyaghravaktra Dakini, holding a skull cup in her left hand, her right holding the chopper (Krrtikha). Like the warriors of ancient times, her tiger head mask covers her head completely, with the skin hanging down her back. She also wears a tiger-skin dhoti, a right usually reserved for male deities. Dakinis uch as she walk the skies and help guide men along the right path, and serve to connect the earthly and celestial spheres. They are able to remove physical hindrances and spiritual obstacles, and their ferocious looks are always directed against the obstacles which prevent men from reaching virtuous outcomes, such as sickness and. material need. Vyaghravaktra Dakini is one of the three most powerful of these beings, who are particularly invoked when war threatens.
9.3 x 11.8cm