Materials:
Coral, lapis lazuli, turquoise, seashell & Himalayan crystal
Silver-plated copper

Dimensions & Weight:
Length: 8 inches
Height: 19 inches
Depth: 6 inches
Weight: 3.15 kilograms

Shipping Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal

Description:
Master Nepali craftsman created this exquisite Green Tara (the Bodhisattva of enlightened activity) sculpture from coral, lapis lazuli, turquoise, seashell, and Himalayan quartz crystal.

At the apex of the second prabha (halo) behind the Green Tara is the garuda-child Chhepu (carved from turquoise), as a protection from all dangers. Above the prabhas, beneath the jeweled umbrella (topped with a carved piece of Himalayan quartz crystal) is Manjushri (carved from coral) depicted as a male bodhisattva wielding a flaming sword in his right hand, representing the realization of transcendent wisdom which cuts down ignorance and duality.

In addition to the extensive carved stonework on the base are two carved vajras on either side of the base in turquoise and coral. On the rear of the shrine are carved stonework images of the sun, moon, Buddha’s all-seeing eye, Kalasha, holy birds and flowers – all in coral, turquoise, and lapis lazuli.

ICONOGRAPHY:

Tara’s name means “star” or “planet”; therefore she is associated with navigation and travel both literally and metaphorically as spiritually crossing to the “other side” of the ocean of existence (enlightenment). The word Tara itself is derived from the root ‘tri’ (to cross), hence the implied meaning: “the one who enables living beings to cross the Ocean of Existence and Suffering.” Her compassion for living beings, her desire to save them from suffering, is said to be even stronger than a mother’s love for her children. Goddess Tara, a female Buddha and meditational deity, is arguably the most popular goddess in the Buddhist pantheon. She is considered to be the goddess of universal compassion who represents virtuous and enlightened activity.

Green Tara is Tara’s most dynamic manifestation. Her color symbolizes youthful vigor and activity. She is most often depicted in a posture of ease with her right leg extended, signifying her readiness to spring into action. The left leg is folded in the contemplative position on the lotus pedestal, the two together thus symbolizing the integration of wisdom and art. Her left hand, in the gesture of granting refuge, holds the stem of a blue lotus that floats over her left shoulder as a symbol of purity and power. With her right hand she makes the boon-granting gesture.

The detail and craftsmanship displayed in this unique Green Tara shrine is absolutely remarkable.