Dimensions: Height: 4,2 cm Wide 18,6 cm Depth 18,6 cm
Weight: 351 grams

The ritual implement is cast in bronze and green patination. It is formed as a symmetrical five-pronged vajra, each end with four curved outer prongs enclosing a central straight prong, all emerging from lotus bases. The central grip is decorated with a globular knop and encircled by wrathful faces with bulging eyes and snarling mouths, framed by foliate elements.

The prongs are slightly worn from handling, the surface showing a rich, dark patina with areas of green encrustation. Such vajras were central implements in Tibetan Buddhist ritual, used in conjunction with a bell (ghanta).

Symbolically, the vajra represents indestructible truth and the union of opposites: the male principle of method and compassion balanced with the female principle of wisdom. The five prongs signify the five wisdoms that counteract the five poisons of ignorance, desire, anger, pride, and envy.

This example, with its robust casting and detailed wrathful faces, reflects the high level of metalwork in Tibetan ritual art of the 19th century, designed for continuous use in monastic ceremonies.