18th Century Gilt Bronze Padmasambhava Buddha Statue Tibetan Antique from Ganden Monastery

Item Type: Tibetan Antique Statue
Dimensions: Height: 18 in (46 cm) Width: 13 in (33 cm) Depth: 9.84 in (25 cm)
Materials and Techniques: Bronze. Gilt
Place of Origin: Tibet Ganden Monastery
Period: 18th Century
Date of Manufacture: 18th Century
Condition: Good

This statue of Padmasambhava is one of the eight manifestations and nine incarnations of Guru Rinpoche. It represents the incarnation of Padmasambhava in a layperson’s form. symbolizing the transmission of the eight practices and the four yogas. having attained the accomplishment of vidyādhi. In this form. he is depicted as a layperson. holding a double-sided leather drum in his right hand and a vase on his knee with his left hand. seated in the Quanjia posture.

The statue features a five-leaf crown on his head. with the leaves shaped like flowers. adding an elegant touch. Treasured strings hang from his ears. extending down to the waist. His face is round and harmonious. exuding a sense of serenity. The figure is dressed in thick brocade robes. with flowing folds that naturally drape. giving the fabric a rich texture. The fluttering sleeves and flowing silk belt enhance the rhythmic beauty of the statue.

The lower part of the statue rests on a lotus throne. with outstretched lotus petals that highlight the three-dimensional. symmetrical distribution of the figure. The statue’s vivid form and the faint gleam of gilding hint at the magnificence of the original gilded finish when it was created. The carving is exquisite. with smooth patterns on the clothing. flying ribbons. and intricate. three-dimensional lotus petals. Sculptures of this theme are relatively rare. and given its large size and high-quality craftsmanship from the same period. this piece is a valuable collector’s item.