Archival gel pen on CANSON archival black paper
Size: 16.5 x 11.5 inches each. Shipped Unframed. 
(Frame in display image is for representational purposes only)
 
A kartika is a small, symbolic crescent knife or 'chopper', used in Vajrayana Buddhist ceremony. It symbolizes the severance of all material and worldly bonds and is crowned with a vajra, which is said to destroy ignorance, and leads to enlightenment. Kapalas (skull cap) are used mainly for esoteric purposes such as rituals. Among the rituals using kapalas are higher tantric meditation to achieve a transcendental state of mind within the shortest possible time; libation to gods and deities to win their favor.