古铜鎏金六臂大黑天护法神塑像 - Antique Gilt Bronze 6-Arm Mahakala Statue

25.5 cm x 19 cm

This statue depicts **Mahakala**, a wrathful deity in Vajrayana Buddhism, which is practiced in Tibet, China, and other regions. Mahakala is portrayed with multiple arms, a fierce expression, and a crown adorned with skulls, symbolizing his role as a protector and remover of obstacles.

In Chinese Buddhism, Mahakala is associated with **Daheitian (大黑天)**, the "Great Black Deity," who serves as a guardian of the Dharma. He is especially venerated in esoteric Buddhist traditions and is sometimes linked to wealth and protection in Chinese temples.

**Mahakala (大黑天) – The Wrathful Protector**

1. Origin and Meaning**
Mahakala (Sanskrit: महाकाल, meaning "Great Black One" or "Great Time") is a powerful deity in Vajrayana Buddhism, Hinduism, and Chinese esoteric Buddhism. In China, he is known as **Daheitian (大黑天)**, often depicted as a guardian figure in Buddhist temples, particularly in **Chan (Zen) Buddhism** and **Tantric traditions**. His fierce appearance represents his role in **destroying evil, ignorance, and obstacles** while protecting Buddhist practitioners.

2. Iconography and Symbolism**
The gilt bronze statue shows Mahakala in his common wrathful form with the following notable features:

- **Dark or black body** → Represents his ability to absorb all negativities and illusions.
- **Multiple arms** → Symbolizes his vast power and ability to perform different protective functions.
- **Crown of skulls** → Represents wisdom gained from transcending ego and worldly attachments.
- **Flaming hair and fierce expression** → Symbolizes his intense energy and role as a defender of the Dharma.
- **Treading on a smaller figure** → A demon or obstacles being crushed, showing victory over ignorance and harmful forces.

3. Mahakala in Chinese Buddhism**
In **Chinese Buddhist temples**, Mahakala is often found near entrances or in side halls, serving as a **guardian deity**. He is particularly venerated in **esoteric Buddhist traditions** and is also associated with **wealth and prosperity**, similar to the Hindu deity Kubera. Some temples even worship him as a **deity of fortune and protection for merchants**.

4. Influence in Other Traditions**
- **In Tibetan Buddhism**, Mahakala has many forms, including a six-armed version (Chaturbhuja Mahakala) that is revered by the Gelug school.
- **In Japanese Buddhism**, he is known as **Daikokuten (大黒天)**, where he transforms into a deity of prosperity and good fortune, often associated with wealth and commerce.

**Conclusion**
The gilt bronze statue is a representation of **Mahakala (Daheitian)** in Chinese Vajrayana Buddhism. His role is **both protective and auspicious**, guarding the Dharma while also bringing fortune and removing obstacles.