Parashu – Buddhist Ritual Axe with Filigree

Parashu on a stand. The ritual axe is worked in filigree, gilded, and set with crystal and lapis lazuli. The Parashu cuts through negative concepts in the mind and separates birth from death. It symbolizes the subduing of malignant demons and enemies of the Buddhadharma.

The shaft is wrapped with twisted wire. Its upper section centers on a crystal hub, to which a kartika, cut from crystal, is attached. The kartika is mounted on a makara head with an open mouth, framing and holding it. Carved lapis lazuli elements connect the makara head to the spherical crystal hub.

Two half vajras are attached to the sides and rear of the central hub, each ending in a drop-shaped crystal. The lower end of the staff is finished with a half crystal vajra.

The stand is worked in filigree. Thin wire is bent into spirals, filled with small arched elements, and joined in an ornamental pattern. Colored stones are set within the filigree in floral forms. 

The Parashu follows the established iconographic conventions of Vajrayana art in the Kathmandu Valley, in which form, symbolic meaning, and ornament are brought together in a balanced composition.

Parashu

Copper and crystal, decorated with filigree, carved lapis lazuli, colored stones, gold-plated. On a stand. The object is patinated. Handcrafted in Nepal.

• Height: 30 cm
• Width: 57 cm
• Depth: 16 cm
• Weight: 1595 g