Lot 81A
Central Asia, Tibet, ca. mid to late 19th century CE. A fine cast-brass figure of the Green Tara or Shyamatara, a mother and savior goddess who offers protection from all dangers, seated in the relaxed lalitsana position on a double lotus throne. Additional lotus flowers rise on her left side and support her right foot that extends from the base, symbolizing her ability to stand up easily to assist those in need. A sheer robe drapes down her left shoulder, covering her left breast, and then wrapping around her waist, hips, and legs, while the rest of her voluptuous body is heavily adorned with a towering tiara, heavy ear adornments, bracelets, armbands, and a braided necklace. Her tranquil countenance presents huge eyes beneath a sweeping brow, a pointed nose, and bow lips. Both hands form the teaching dharmachakra mudra, gesturing her worshipers to listen to her teachings. Size: 8.5" W x 12.6" H (21.6 cm x 32 cm)
Note how the bottom of the figure has been sealed shut by a copper plate stamped with a Buddhist symbol indicating that this piece has been consecrated.
According to Buddhist teachings, Tara was born out of the tears of compassion of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who wept as he observed the suffering of worldly beings, his tears formed a lake from which a lotus sprung. When the lotus opened, the goddess Tara was within. Shyamatara or the Green Tara protects believers from the eight great dangers - lions, elephants, snakes, fire, thieves, water, demons, and prisons or the government. In Buddhism, Tara (Sanskrit for star) is a savior goddess. In Tibet, she is the most important deity and her name is Sgrol-ma or Shyamatara (she who saves). She is also popular in Nepal and Mongolia. Tara is the goddess of supreme compassion, said to be stronger than a mother's love for her children. In addition, Tara is said to bring about longevity, protect earthly travel, and guard followers on their spiritual journey to enlightenment.
Provenance: private Ferndale, Michigan, USA collection; ex-private Detroit, Michigan, USA collection, acquired prior to 2004
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#182134
- Condition: Some light surface wear with some light nicks and abrasions as shown, but otherwise intact and excellent. Good preservation of detail and nice patina throughout.
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