The Diamond Vajra 

The vajra (in Sanskrit ‘diamond’ or ‘thunderbolt’), a magical weapon symbolic of power and indestructibility, is strongly associated with Esoteric (Tantric) Buddhism. This talk will begin with a description of the maritime route by which Buddhism came to Southeast Asia. It will examine evidence of Esoteric Buddhism in medieval Cambodia.  A focus will be the superb twelfth century stone carving of the head of Vishnu in the Rijksmuseum and the vajra decoration on its headdress (illustrated).

Dr Marnie Feneley

Dr Marnie Feneley is based at the University of New South Wales where she is a lecturer in Asian studies as well as being a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the School of Art and Design. Marnie has spent over a decade researching Khmer schulpture in particular the West Mebon( water shrine) at Angkor and the famous bronze Vishnu which was found there. She has amalgamated archaeological and art historical research with new media art practice by creating a digital visualisation of this research. She is considered a pioneer in the field digital archaeology and heritage. She regularly gives invited talks at national and international forums. 

Date: Monday 5th June, 6pm to 8pm

Venue: Sydney Mechancs School of Arts, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney (between Bathurst and Park Streets)

Cost: Members $25, Guests $35. Includes refreshments.

How to Book: By email to Gill Green: bookings@taasa.org.au or phone Jillian on 0466 977 313. Bookings and payment in advance essential. No refunds.

How to Pay: 

1. By direct deposit with ‘your name, Lecture 4’ as reference

Account Name:  The Asian Arts Society of Australia

BSB:  012 003

Account Number:  2185 28414

2. By credit card or Paypal via this website see booking button top right.

Gallery Photos: 

1. Head of Vishnu, 12th Century, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

2. Vajra from the Cirebon Shipwreck.