Pair of Tibetan Buddhist Bronze Phurba and Double Vajra | Circa 19th–Early 20th Century
Description
More
Less
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Tibet / Himalayan Region
Material: Cast bronze with natural ritual patina
Period: 19th – Early 20th Century
Description
This important pair of Tibetan Buddhist ritual implements includes a finely cast Phurba (ritual dagger) and a Double Vajra (Vishvavajra), two sacred objects central to Vajrayana Buddhist ceremonial practice.
The phurba features a sharply tapered trihedral blade emerging from a mythical makara head, leading into an intricately modeled handle composed of vajra architectural forms and crowned with a wrathful deity head. In tantric practice, the phurba is used symbolically to subdue negative forces and spiritual obstacles, representing the transformation of harmful energies into wisdom.
Accompanying it is a finely cast Double Vajra, also known as a Vishvavajra, formed by two crossed vajras radiating from a central hub. This powerful symbol represents indestructibility, spiritual authority, and the unshakable foundation of enlightenment extending in all directions. Double vajras are commonly placed at the base of ritual mandalas or used in shrine settings to symbolize universal stability and protection.
Together, these objects form a harmonious ritual pairing—one active and transformative, the other stabilizing and protective—making them highly desirable for collectors of Himalayan ritual art or shrine display.
Features
- Complete pairing of two important Vajrayana ritual objects
- Traditional trihedral phurba blade form
- Wrathful deity and makara sculptural details
- Double vajra symbolizing universal stability and protection
- Finely cast bronze construction
Cultural Significance
In Tibetan Buddhism, the phurba is employed to symbolically bind and neutralize obstructive energies during ritual practice, while the double vajra represents cosmic balance and the indestructible nature of enlightened truth. Together, they embody transformation and stability—core principles within tantric Buddhist practice. Such ritual implements were essential elements within monasteries, shrines, and private devotional spaces across Tibet and the Himalayan regions.
Condition
Both pieces remain in very good antique condition with surface wear and patina appropriate to age and devotional use. Minor casting irregularities and surface wear are present, with no significant damage observed.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Phurba (ritual dagger): 6 in
Double Vajra (Vishvavajra): 4 in
Age (Approximate)
100–150 years old
Learn More
Learn about the symbolism of the Double Vajra at Vishwa Vajra – Symbolism and Importance
Explore our curated Artifacts of Worship & Devotion – Sacred Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Tibet / Himalayan Region
Material: Cast bronze with natural ritual patina
Period: 19th – Early 20th Century
Description
This important pair of Tibetan Buddhist ritual implements includes a finely cast Phurba (ritual dagger) and a Double Vajra (Vishvavajra), two sacred objects central to Vajrayana Buddhist ceremonial practice.
The phurba features a sharply tapered trihedral blade emerging from a mythical makara head, leading into an intricately modeled handle composed of vajra architectural forms and crowned with a wrathful deity head. In tantric practice, the phurba is used symbolically to subdue negative forces and spiritual obstacles, representing the transformation of harmful energies into wisdom.
Accompanying it is a finely cast Double Vajra, also known as a Vishvavajra, formed by two crossed vajras radiating from a central hub. This powerful symbol represents indestructibility, spiritual authority, and the unshakable foundation of enlightenment extending in all directions. Double vajras are commonly placed at the base of ritual mandalas or used in shrine settings to symbolize universal stability and protection.
Together, these objects form a harmonious ritual pairing—one active and transformative, the other stabilizing and protective—making them highly desirable for collectors of Himalayan ritual art or shrine display.
Features
- Complete pairing of two important Vajrayana ritual objects
- Traditional trihedral phurba blade form
- Wrathful deity and makara sculptural details
- Double vajra symbolizing universal stability and protection
- Finely cast bronze construction
Cultural Significance
In Tibetan Buddhism, the phurba is employed to symbolically bind and neutralize obstructive energies during ritual practice, while the double vajra represents cosmic balance and the indestructible nature of enlightened truth. Together, they embody transformation and stability—core principles within tantric Buddhist practice. Such ritual implements were essential elements within monasteries, shrines, and private devotional spaces across Tibet and the Himalayan regions.
Condition
Both pieces remain in very good antique condition with surface wear and patina appropriate to age and devotional use. Minor casting irregularities and surface wear are present, with no significant damage observed.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Phurba (ritual dagger): 6 in
Double Vajra (Vishvavajra): 4 in
Age (Approximate)
100–150 years old
Learn More
Learn about the symbolism of the Double Vajra at Vishwa Vajra – Symbolism and Importance
Explore our curated Artifacts of Worship & Devotion – Sacred Relics Collection
You May Also Like
