A phurpa has a three-sided triangular blade. This triple blade issues from the jaws of a makara (mythical crocodile). Also issuing from the makara mouth are a couple of snakes (nagas), clinging to the uppermost blade. Above the makara head is a five-pronged vajra. Above the vajra are three heads of Hayagriva. Each head has three eyes, bushy eyebrows and an emblem of four skulls. The upswept hair of the three heads comes together at the top with a horse's head emerging at the apex. The horse is the distinguishing symbol of Hayagriva.
The three faces of Hayagriva signify that he is the deity invoked to dwell within the phurpa. These three faces destroy the afflictions of ignorance, desire and hatred. The binding of the hair into a single topknot symbolizes the binding of all extremes and contentions into the single nature of reality. Their nine eyes symbolize the nine vehicles of the Buddha's teachings. The twelve projecting skulls, which encircle their combined crown, represent the twelve deeds of the Buddha. These are:
1. His descent from the Tushita heaven. 2. His entry into his mother's womb. 3. His birth. 4. His mastery of arts and skills. 5. His marriage and fathering of a child. 6. His renunciation. 7. His practicing of austerities. 8. His resolve to meditate under the bodhi tree. 9. His conquest of Mara. 10. His enlightenment. 11. His turning of the wheel of dharma. 12. His death and parinirvana.
This description by Nitin Kumar, Executive Editor, Exotic India.
References:
Beer, Robert. The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs: Massachusetts, Shambhala Publications, 1999.
Lipton, Barbara, and Nima Dorjee Ragnubs. Treasures of Tibetan Art: Collections of the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art: New York, Oxford University Press, 1996.
Of Related Interest :
Hayagriva Phurpa cum Chopper
Hayagriva - The Protector of Horses
Mahakala Phurpa/Chopper
Wooden Phurpa
Phurpa Pendant in Sterling Silver
Ritual Implements in Tibetan Buddhism: A Symbolic Appraisal
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
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