The wrathful Mahakala is a protector of the Kathmandu Valley and is practiced by both the Buddhist and Hindu religions. Well balanced with a heavy-set body, this work is carved in wood, a common material for Newar artists. Mahakala’s many arms hold his attributes: curved knife and skull cup, skull garland prayer beads and lasso, double sided drum (damaru) and tantric staff. Below, Mahakala is supported by Ganesha positioned in an unusually severe and visually painful splayed posture.