A gilt-copper alloy figure of Padmasambhava, Tibet, circa 16th century

A gilt-copper alloy figure of Padmasambhava
Tibet, circa 16th century

Himalayan Art Resources item no. 13846.
HAR編號13846

Height 6⅝ in., 16.8 cm

Condition Report:
Good condition with minor rubbing to the gilding.

Catalogue Note:
This finely cast portait depicts the legendary Indian pandita Padmasambhava. Known as Guru Rinpoche to Tibetans, and by many other names which reflect his multiple forms, Padmasambhava is credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet. In the 8th century, the Indian abbot Shantarakshita and the Tibetan chögyal or dharma king Trisong Detsen invited the tantrika Padmasambhava to make the arduous journey to Tibet. Along the way, he encountered and subdued the many local spirits, gods and goddesses and bound them by oath as sworn protectors and protectresses of Buddhism in Tibet. Upon his arrival in Ü province, Padmasambhava subdued the local spirits hindering the construction of Tibet's first monastery, Samye.

Provenance:
Acquired in Hong Kong in the 1990s.