Large sculpture of "Tara", Nepal, Malla dynasty

Large figure on a carved wooden base. Made in cast metal with a delicate finish that corresponds to the Nepalese work.

It represents Tara in a frontal posture with a graceful position, a serene expression while holding a lotus flower (padma) and her right hand outstretched. She wears a "dothi", which covers the hips, and jewelry: crown, necklaces, bracelets and belt. In the ears stand out two ornate earrings. The goddess "Tara" is the ultimate Buddhist savior who bestows blessings on devotees. She is often presented as the opposite of Avalokiteshvara and has the purpose of unconditional protection. Among her forms, the name Sitatara (White Tara), incarnation of wisdom, with a lotus, is the most common.

The gilding has acquired patina and in some parts has been diluted revealing its age and the passage of time.

Height figure: 72 cm; Total height: 82 cm; Height base: 10 cm; Weight figure: 12.14 kg.

Provenance: European private collection.

References:

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

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