Green Tara / Dholma on Lion Statue

Green Tara – The Saviouress

Green Tara is a prominent figure in Buddhist tradition, especially within Tibetan Buddhism. She is a Bodhisattva, representing enlightened activity, compassion, and the wish to relieve suffering. The Green Tara is often depicted seated on a lotus throne, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The addition of a lion in Green Tara's iconography introduces the aspect of her riding a lion.

The lion is a powerful symbol in Buddhism, representing strength, fearlessness, and the triumph over ignorance. When Green Tara is depicted riding a lion, it emphasizes her fearless and protective qualities. This imagery conveys the idea that Green Tara, with her compassionate and enlightened nature, fearlessly treads the path to alleviate the suffering of sentient beings.

Key features of the Green Tara on Lion iconography include:

1. Green Tara's Posture:
• Green Tara is typically depicted in a posture of ease, with one leg slightly extended, symbolizing her readiness to come to the aid of those in need.
2. Mudras:
• Green Tara often exhibits specific hand gestures or mudras, with her right hand in the gesture of supreme generosity, symbolizing her ability to fulfill the wishes of devotees.
3. Lion Symbolism:
• The lion, often portrayed as her mount, symbolizes fearlessness and majesty. It signifies her ability to overcome obstacles and protect practitioners on their spiritual journey.
4. Lotus Throne:
• Green Tara is commonly shown seated on a lotus throne, indicating her transcendence over the impurities of the material world.
5. Compassionate Expression:
• Green Tara is depicted with a compassionate expression, reflecting her commitment to alleviating suffering and aiding those in need.

The Green Tara on Lion is a powerful representation that combines the compassionate qualities of Green Tara with the symbol of the lion's strength and fearlessness. The imagery serves as an inspiration for practitioners on their spiritual path, encouraging them to cultivate compassion and courage in their pursuit of enlightenment. As with any religious or spiritual representation, interpretations may vary across different traditions and lineages within Buddhism.

About this Sculpture

This sculpture beautifully captures the grace and power of Green Tara, also known as Dholma, as she rides a lion – a potent symbol of fearlessness and regal strength. Meticulously crafted from copper alloy through the esteemed lost wax method, the statue embraces an oxidation finish that enhances its allure.

Every detail of the statue is finely carved, attesting to the exceptional skill of the master artisans. The oxidation finish adds a touch of beauty, richness, and vitality, enriching the sculpture with a vibrant and lifelike quality.

Individually created in Patan, Nepal, by the revered master artisans of the Shakya clan, acknowledged globally as among the finest, this sculpture is a testament to their dedication and artistry. As contemporary custodians of a centuries-old tradition, these craftsmen specialize in producing sacred art for temples and monasteries. The refined metalworking techniques employed in its creation have been seamlessly transmitted through generations since ancient times, contributing to the enduring historical and cultural legacy of this extraordinary piece.