Page 42 - Bonhams Himalayan, Indian Art march 2015
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a gilt copper alloy figure of Virupa
Tibet or Nepal, 14th century
Wearing a floral garland marked by inset turquoise and a crown securing his finely detailed
coiffure, the paunchy mahasiddha sits on a plump, beaded lotus throne.
4 7/8 in. (12.5 cm) high
$80,000 - 120,000
Virupa was the first mortal master of the ‘Path with the Result’, a refined tantric practice which
can provide enlightenment in a single lifetime. Formerly an abbot of Nalanda, Virupa received
the ‘Path’ from the deity Vajra Nairatmya after giving up on decades of unsuccessful attempts
at the Chakrasamvara tantra. His subsequent rituals cost him his affiliation, as other members
of the monastic hierarchy frowned upon his use of meat and alcohol. Banished from Nalanda,
he wandered as a yogin, performing a number of miracles.
This ebullient sculpture recalls the most beloved episode of Virupa’s life. One day he stumbled
into a tavern and began feasting. When the hostess enquired as to payment, he assured her
that he would settle his tab once the sun had crossed a line he drew on the floor. Once she
agreed, however, he mischievously pointed to the sun and trapped it in its course so he could
keep gorging for days. Meanwhile, the kingdom plunged into cosmic disarray. Eventually the
king, fearing widespread crop failures, rushed to empty his coffers to pay Virupa’s bill.
40 | BONHAMS
