Date: early to 19th century
Geography: Tibet
Culture: Tibetan
Dimensions: 6cm H x 3.5cm L x 3cm W.
Weight 90g
Material: bronze alloy
Condition is good for its age, see photos
An exceptional piece of Tibetan devotional art, this small, hand cast bronze statue depicts the revered Lama Tsongkhapa (1357–1419), founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Dating from the 19th century, the piece captures Tsongkhapa in his iconic pose, seated upon a lotus flower pedestal (padmasana). Though small, its presence is commanding, radiating the wisdom and tranquillity associated with the great reformer. The deep patina attests to its age and spiritual history. A perfect artifact for collectors or as a focal point for meditation.
Lama Tsongkhapa's legacy as a scholar and ascetic fundamentally shaped Tibetan Buddhism. By the 19th century, during a period of sustained religious patronage, bronze casting workshops across Tibet were prolific. This small statue was likely commissioned for a personal shrine, offering a tangible focus for prayers (puja) and study of his teachings. Its hand cast nature suggests it was made using the traditional lost wax method, a process ensuring each piece is unique. Over its 100+ years, it has served as a silent witness to countless generations of devotion, carrying the spiritual weight of its era.
Date: early to 19th century
Geography: Tibet
Culture: Tibetan
Dimensions: 6cm H x 3.5cm L x 3cm W.
Weight 90g
Material: bronze alloy
Condition is good for its age, see photos
An exceptional piece of Tibetan devotional art, this small, hand cast bronze statue depicts the revered Lama Tsongkhapa (1357–1419), founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Dating from the 19th century, the piece captures Tsongkhapa in his iconic pose, seated upon a lotus flower pedestal (padmasana). Though small, its presence is commanding, radiating the wisdom and tranquillity associated with the great reformer. The deep patina attests to its age and spiritual history. A perfect artifact for collectors or as a focal point for meditation.
Lama Tsongkhapa's legacy as a scholar and ascetic fundamentally shaped Tibetan Buddhism. By the 19th century, during a period of sustained religious patronage, bronze casting workshops across Tibet were prolific. This small statue was likely commissioned for a personal shrine, offering a tangible focus for prayers (puja) and study of his teachings. Its hand cast nature suggests it was made using the traditional lost wax method, a process ensuring each piece is unique. Over its 100+ years, it has served as a silent witness to countless generations of devotion, carrying the spiritual weight of its era.
