Citipati
In Tibetan Buddhism, the Citipati, or "Lords of the Cemetery" are two mythological Buddhist ascetics, who were so deep in their meditation, they were caught unawares by a thief and beheaded even before they knew they were dead. As a symbol, the Citipati represents the eternal dance of death and perfect awareness. They are usually depicted as a male/female pair of intertwined skeletons caught up in an ecstatic dance. The dance of the Citipati is commemorated twice annually in Tibet with ritual dances. The Citipati are invoked as 'wrathful deities, benevolent protectors who appear as fierce beings with a demonic appearance.
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Iconography
The Citipati are two skeletons, one of a man and the other of a woman, represented with arms and legs interlaced, dancing the Tsam dance. They are considered to be masters of the cemetery. The Citipati are one of the seventy-five forms of Mahakala and are visible reminders of the impermanence of everything worldly. Their mouths are parted in a large grin, showing all their teeth. Each wears a long scarf. According to a Northern Buddhist legend, the Citipati were, in a former existence, two ascetics who were once lost in such deep meditation that they did not notice that a thief had cut off their heads and thrown them in the dust. Since that time they have been ferocious enemies of thieves, having vowed eternal vengeance. This legend is somewhat similar to that of Yama. In the cemetery, the Citipati are supposed to perform a skeleton ritual dance during which they blow the Tibetan long horns. In most monasteries the dance, symbolic of the cycle of life and death, is performed in the monastery cemetery once in summer and once in winter by monks wearing masks.
Tibetan Stamp : About Tibetan Stamp
Tibetan stamps with metal settings are beautiful and unique tools for creating intricate designs on paper, fabric, or other surfaces. These stamps are made of high-quality brass or other metals and are designed with intricate Tibetan motifs, such as the endless knot, lotus flower, or the eight auspicious symbols.
The stamps are typically mounted on a wooden handle, making them easy to use and maneuver. The metal setting on the stamps ensures that they are durable and long-lasting, allowing for repeated use over time.
When using Tibetan stamps, you can create beautiful and intricate designs on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cloth, leather, or even walls. These stamps can be used for a variety of crafts, such as scrapbooking, card-making, or even for creating beautiful designs on clothing or home decor items.
In addition to their practical uses, Tibetan stamps with metal settings also have cultural significance. They are an expression of traditional Tibetan art and symbolism, and many of the designs have deep spiritual meanings within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Overall, Tibetan stamps with metal settings are a unique and beautiful addition to any crafter's toolkit. They allow for the creation of intricate designs that reflect both the beauty of Tibetan culture and the creativity of the individual using them.
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