This powerful, yet gently sensuous image represents Achalanatha in sexual
embrace with his consort. Each is rendered in a light-shade of blue. This is
the hue of the sky. It is interesting to note here that skyclad is often an
epithet for practitioners of occult practices who perform their rituals
without clothes. This is particularly popular in certain witchcraft and
tantric rituals. Thus the two embracing deities here are sky-clad, both
literally and physically. Significantly, Achalanatha is believed to be an
emanation of the Dhyani Buddha Akshobya, who is visualized in Buddhist
sadhanas as blue colored.
Achalanatha, also known as Chandamaharoshana, is an important deity in
Tantric Buddhism and has a complete Tantra text devoted to himself, known as
Chandamaharoshanatantra. In this text he is the enlightened exponent of
truth, answering questions posed by his consort as they are joined in
physical union.
In this artwork he is shown seated in his typical bhumavarudhajanukun asana
('knee on earth' posture). He holds a noose in his left hand and brandishes
an upraised sword in his right. His lips unite with those of his consort.
Both wear detailed ornamentation, including elaborate crowns.
Chandamaharoshana has as his general function the subduing of the evildoers
of this world, but among them he singles out those who transgress against
women. He assures us that he keeps his sword and noose ready as he scouts
for men who fail to pay homage to women, so he can slash the scoundrels to
pieces:
Mother, daughter, sister, niece,
and any other female relative, as well as
a female musician, Brahman, sweeper,
dancer, washerwoman, and prostitute;
holy woman, yogini, and ascetic as well. . .
these he should serve in the proper way
without making any distinction,
Chandamaharoshana will be provoked
and slay the practitioner,
throw him into Avici Hell,
and threaten him with sword and noose.
------------- The Chandamaharoshanatantra (trans. by Christopher George)
Delivered by 
to all international destinations within 3 to 5 days, fully insured.
Peintures
heures depuis 30th May, 2011
