Large gilt bronze figure "Tara", Nepal, XIII - XIV century.

The figure is in a static frontal pose that is softened with a slight bending of the leg at the knee, creating a subtle cadence in the posture. The face is kind with a benevolent expression, Tara "the supreme Buddhist savior" bestows blessings on devotees with her outstretched lower hand delicately holding a lotus flower bud. She wears a dothi tied at the waist, below the navel, leaving the torso bare though adorned with jewels, topped by a high crown and flanked by large ornamental earrings. It is on a lotus base made of carved rosewood (紫檀). 

In Vajrayana Buddhism, Tara is often presented as the spiritual counterpart of Avalokiteshvara and represents the role of compassionate protector. She appears in many forms, of which Sitatara (White Tara) with a lotus (padma) was the most popular. It is likely to be Sitatara, the embodiment of perfected wisdom and the wish-fulfilling bestower of blessings.

The figure has a large scale, outstanding casting and an exquisite finish in keeping with Nepalese craftsmanship. The volumes of the figure are balanced to create an appearance of the sensuous and joyful form. The gilding of the sculpture has disappeared in some areas, which would formerly have been covered in its entirety, by the passage of time, revealing the copper patina underneath.

Figure height: 72 cm; Total height: 82 cm; Base size: 10 x 26 x 33 cm; Figure weight: 12.14 kg; Wooden base weight: 4.96 kg

References:

Christie's "Masterpieces of Buddist Art," December 2, 2015, lot 2902.

Metmuseum, "Tara, the Buddhist Savior," no. 66.179.

Provenance: 

European private collection. 

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