Tibetan Nyingma School Gilt Bronze Nine-Prong Vajra

A large Tibetan gilt bronze and iron nine-prong Nyingma school Vajra, 18-19th century, thunderbolt-sceptre well cast with a central bulbous grip that separates two lotus pedestals supporting a central column inlaid with iron surrounded by eight arched Vajra points emerging from the jaws of makara heads, 18.5 cm long, Vajra is a Sanskrit word meaning both thunderbolt and diamond and together with ghanta or bell, it is one of principal ritual items used the practice of Himalayan Buddhism. This nine-prong Vajra is most frequently associated with Nyingma or old school tradition of Himalayan Buddhism. It is most likely made for display on personal shrine or altar. Provenance: An old Tibetan private collection, descent from the family