Pair of vajra swords, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

Red copper with gilded polychrome details. The decorations are in relief showing dragons, cords, scales, faces and petals. In good condition, with patina.

This pair of instruments, common in Buddhism, are intended for Buddhist rites as a method of meditation and liberation. According to the tradition, the human body has several meridians and as age increases they tend to become knotted, and can be undone by practicing tantric techniques. Some deities also often use these as symbolism. 

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Size: 20.5 x 5 x 10 cm; Weight: 1152 g