Over the years, Buddhist-Tantric traditions have incorporated numerous elements of Hinduism. Its deities are no exception: they have varied iconographies in different, predominantly Buddhist countries. The murti that you see on this page is of the Japanese Devi Durga. She is known as Butsu-Mo or Koti-Sri and is worshipped as a wrathful protectoress.

The Japanese Durga is seated in padmasana on a lotus throne. Its narrow pistil resting on a slightly wider plinth gives it the shape of a gigantic goblet. The infinitude of limb and weapon, all forming a gossamer network about Her, is a hallmark of Japanese iconography. A composure of profound contemplation characterises Her sharp-featured face.

Like most Buddhist iconographies, Japanese Durga wears a high crown engraved with the image of the Shakyamuni. Behind the seated figure is an aureole the shape of a dia, seemingly made of leaf and vine. A mythical flower grows at its zenith. This Japanese Durga murti comes in three colours of varying tone finish.