Dhyani Buddha and Vajrasattva

Description

This Pala period panel carved in relief, in distinctive Pala style, shows a row of multiple meditating Buddhas (Dhyani Buddhas) at the top. These were considered divine figures- to attain Enlightenment, they did not have to pass through the stage of a bodhisattva; such creation was done exclusively by their emanations, the divine bodhisattvas. Below them, the lower panel depicts Vajrasattva Ghantapani seated cross-legged in the left corner. Next to him one notes the purnaghata motif with foliage, surrounded by lotus plants and a full vase. On the other side, one observese two kneeling female devotees, with their hands in anjalimudra, also bearing offerings. The band separating both panels also carries a written inscription.