Vajrayana Ritual Phurba (Pair of Ritual Pillars)
A monumental pair of Vajrayana ritual pillars, weighing approximately 70.4 kg, composed of an alloy of bronze, iron, and low-grade silver. Each pillar is surmounted by an elaborate finial attached to a four-faced deity-like head. Below it are alternating concave rectangular sections and a square, diamond-shaped element extending in four directions.
The lower section features three animal-head forms arranged around a triangular axis, followed by a prominent three-sided triangular shaft resting upon a distinctive double-domed structure. The overall composition combines anthropomorphic, animal, geometric, and ritual elements characteristic of the broader Vajrayana Buddhist phurba (kīla) tradition.
The objects may have ritual associations with Vajrakīlaya (Dorje Phurba). The weathered surface displays varied dark and lighter patination consistent with age and prolonged handling.
