Dimensions: Height 15,2 cm Wide 13,7 cm Depth 7,8 cm
Weight: 1499 grams

Finely carved from a single block of deep blue lapis lazuli, the wrathful tantric deity Hevajra is depicted in dynamic movement, dancing in alidhasana within a flaming mandorla, embracing his consort Nairatmya. Hevajra is shown with multiple arms radiating around his body, each holding ritual attributes, while the fierce expression with bulging eyes and bared fangs is framed by a crown of skulls. The base is decorated with a row of prostrate figures and animals beneath, symbolizing the subjugation of ignorance.

The reverse is smoothly polished, displaying the natural crystalline inclusions and golden pyrite flecks of the stone. Traces of red pigment accentuate the details of the carving.

Carvings in lapis lazuli of such complexity are extremely rare, as the hardness and natural fissures of the stone made it exceptionally difficult to achieve such intricate detail. They were highly prized in Tibetan Buddhism as lapis lazuli was associated with purity, healing, and celestial power.

Comparable examples of hardstone tantric deities are preserved in the Potala Palace, Lhasa, and in the Museo d’Arte Orientale, Turin.

The present piece, with its vibrant colour, fine preservation, and powerful iconography, represents a rare and important survival of Tibetan lapidary art, intended for private tantric practice or as a prestigious altar image.