The object that i choose is a lotus mandala of hevajra. Mandala is a very recognizable symbol of Tantric Buddhism（The Rubin). It can be use as a ritual object, or a devices for instruction. This beautiful mandala that made by copper alloy is about 12 inches high.  The overall color is bronze, and because of the time, the surface of the object is very reflective. This object is originally from the Northeastern India during 12-century, it takes the shape of a lotus.  The line of the shape is curved, conveys a feeling of purit and mysterious . With the open shape of the lotus, it also implies the meditation stage which is full of reality and pure. When i was in the museum, the lotus on the top is opened, but when I’m doing research online, the lotus is closed in the picture. So those Lotus petals are moveable. From the research, the sculpture can be close into a bud. While the lotus is opened, it reveal the sources of power found within. There are also figures on the petals, known as mahasiddhas. They are the founding masters of Tantric Buddhism. Those mahasiddhas are carved on the outside of the petals very detailed. We can clearly see the their posture and the objects around them. When the flower is closed, the figures inside of every petals show up. They are not carved on the petals, but they are 3D figures that standing in front of the petals. Every figure has different posture.

Under the lotus is a stalk. There are two snake-like shape on each side of the stalk. The stalk is made by curved lines, and there are also eight figures between those lines.

Citations

The Rubbin Museum，Lotus Mandala of Hevajra

https://rubinmuseum.org/collection/artwork/lotus-mandala-of-hevajra