Elements of Hindu Iconography v2.c16.s5.17

v2.c16.s5.17

The description of the image of Mahākāla with his consort Mahākālī is found in the Lalitōpākhyāna. It is stated therein that Mahākāla should be embracing Mahākālī and be wearing a black coat. The colour of Mahākāla is black. His eyes should be red on account of the excessive drink in which he is indulging; he should be drinking from the brahmaṇḍa (the colossal shell from which Brahmā was born) used as a vessel to hold the liquor. His sight must itself be resting fondly on his dark coloured consort Mahākālī, and both of them should be seated upon a *siṃhāsana*. Mahākāla, swallower of the Universe, should have by his side Kāla and Mṛityu. He should also be meditating upon Lalitā, doing *pūjā* to her and bestowing long life on her devotees.