Bhairava or Mahakala
- Javanese, about 14th century
- Eastern Java, Indonesia
- Dimensions
- 198.12 cm (78 in.)
- Medium or Technique
- Andesite (volcanic stone)
- Classification
- Sculpture
- Accession Number
- 1972.951
- On view
- South and Southeast Asia - 176
Mon–Tue:10 am–4:45 pm;
Wed–Fri: 10 am–9:45 pm;
Sat–Sun: 10 am–4:45 pm
Ferocious male deity standing with knees bent and one arm raised. He wears a garland of skulls, a long dhoti, and elaborate jewelry, including a crown and earrings with skulls on them. He has long flowing hair, bulging eyes, and traces of fangs. The nose and both hands are void. The reverse of this freestanding image has been rebuilt somewhat.
About 1972, private collection, Netherlands [see note]. 1972, sold by Gebr. Refuge, C.V. (dealer), Diepenveen, Netherlands, to the MFA. (Accession Date: November 8, 1972)
NOTE: Said to have been kept in the backyard of a private home in the Netherlands.
Frederick L. Jack Fund
© 2013 Museum of Fine Arts, Boston