19th C. Tibetan Brass Deity

**First Time At Auction**

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A cast-brass sculpture of the Buddhist Tara, the feminine counterpart of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, seated in the lalitasana pose (with one leg bent and the other dangling) and presenting a tranquil visage with downcast eyes, an aquiline nose, and a closed mouth. The Tara sits upon a lotus pedestal with one leg forward - a lotus blossom beneath this foot - and holding an orb-like object, perhaps representing a lotus blossom, in the left hand. She wears a tiara with floral motifs, large ear ornaments, bracelets, a magnificent pectoral, and a sash. According to legend, Tara emerged from a tear of Avalokiteshvara, which fell to the ground to form a lake. Out of pristine waters arose a lotus, which opened to reveal the goddess. Similar to Avalokiteshvara, Tara is a compassionate deity who assists others to achieve Enlightenment. Size: 3.2" W x 4.375" H (8.1 cm x 11.1 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#156666
Condition Report: Minor abrasions and pitting, with light encrustations within verso, and softening to some finer details, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.