Simhavaktra at the Guimet Museum, Paris

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Simhavaktra is a powerful symbol of courage and strength in Tibetan Buddhism. Her name "lion faced" or "lion headed" reflects her fearless nature, while the title "dakini" means "sky-walker," an inhabitant of the realm of the sky in the mind. Crafted in China during the 1700s, Simhavaktra's style is a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. This cross-cultural fusion is a testament to the rich history of artistic exchange between China and Tibet, where Buddhist traditions have long been intertwined. Simhavaktra's pose may appear awkward at first glance, but it requires great skill to execute successfully. In fact, she is one of only two comparable sculptures still existing today, a true masterpiece that showcases the artist's exceptional talent. A closer look reveals a wealth of symbolic details on Simhavaktra's surface. Her fiery mane and human skin cape may seem intimidating at first, but they actually represent her inner power to overcome obstacles to enlightenment. Lust, anger, and ignorance are just a few of the negative forces that this fierce dakini can conquer. Every aspect of Simhavaktra is imbued with deep meaning. Her blazing hair represents the fiery passion of wisdom, while the human skin cape symbolizes the stripping away of illusions from perception. Even her jewelry holds significance: two bracelets, two armlets, and a necklace represent the Five Buddhas who preside over the cardinal directions and the negative aspects of human psychology. A glance at Simhavaktra's forehead reveals a third eye that shines brightly, indicating her ability to see beyond the veil of ignorance. This powerful symbol of spiritual insight is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope for enlightenment. This remarkable sculpture is part of "Scan The World," a non-profit initiative that aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe. By scanning the world's most iconic treasures, we can preserve them for future generations to enjoy. Join us in this community effort by emailing stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can contribute your own unique treasures.