2016
Gold plated bronze
5 x 5 x 5 cm



One of five individual altarpieces depicting the set of five skulls gazing in the five directions, which feature in depictions of Tantric deities who wear them as crowns and necklaces. They are known as ‘dry skulls’ because they represent the ‘drying up’ of the five poisons (pride, aversion, attachment, envy, ignorance) and the transmutation of these poisons into the five wisdoms (Wisdom of Equality, Wisdom of Clear Reflection, Wisdom of Discernment, Wisdom of Accomplishment, Wisdom of Ultimate Reality).

Wisdom of Equality dawns when one sees through superficial differentiation and perceives the essential underlying unity of all beings. This realization takes place when one is free of arrogance and conceit. There is neither superiority nor inferiority in this peaceful state of purified mind and no clinging to any sense of a separate self. All mental and physical activity is thereby experienced impartially and becomes inherently enriching.