Crocodile-Headed Female Buddhist Deity (Makaravaktra Dakini)

This 18th-century gilt bronze from Tibet depicts Makaravaktra Dakini, a female Buddhist deity with a human body and the head of a makara (a mythical creature that's half crocodile, half elephant). She serves as a constant companion to Palden Lhamo, one of the most important protector deities in Tibetan Buddhism. While her counterpart Simhavaktra (lion-headed) protects from upper world dangers, Makaravaktra protects from underworld threats.

She adopts a dancing pose with one foot trampling a figure, wears a crown of five skulls, and can confer supernatural powers on devotees. Her role in leading Palden Lhamo's mount makes her an essential figure in protective rituals. At about 3.3 inches tall, this was for personal meditation or shrine use. It's at the Art Institute of Chicago, a gift from Marilynn B. Alsdorf.