Rare Nepali Turquoise Green Tara Gilt Buddhist Statue
Rare Nepali Turquoise Green Tara Gilt Buddhist Statue
Materials:
Gold plated copper
Turquoise
Lapis lazuli
Coral
Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 8.8 inches
Width: 5 inches
Depth: 3 inches
Weight: 1.75 kilograms
Shipping Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal
Description:
Master Nepali craftsman created this wonderful, rare Green Tara statue, whose body is crafted from solid, carved pieces of turquoise set in a body sculpted from copper that is then gold-plated, with filigree metalwork decoration and details in coral, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.
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.