27.5 cm (height)
In Esoteric Buddhism (Vajrayana), a great emphasis is placed on lineage masters, as Vajrayana teachings have been transmitted through generations of these revered figures. Images of lineage masters are a prominent feature of Tibetan Buddhism, which is distinguished by its Vajrayana traditions.
Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, was an Indian master of Vajrayana Buddhism. According to legend, he was discovered as an infant floating on a giant lotus in the middle of a great lake by the king of Oddiyana (likely in present-day Pakistan), which gave him the name “lotus-born” (Padmasambhava). In the 8th century, Padmasambhava was invited to Tibet to propagate Buddhism, subduing demons and malevolent forces along the way. He played a key role in establishing the Samye Monastery, Tibet’s first Buddhist monastery, and helped organize Buddhist scripture translations, laying the foundation for Buddhism’s lasting presence in Tibet. Recognized across all Tibetan Buddhist sects, he is revered as the “Second Buddha.”
This statue depicts Padmasambhava seated on a lotus pedestal, which is itself decorated with lotus petals. Below the pedestal, wave patterns are engraved, symbolizing his legendary birth from a lotus in a great lake. To his right and left, his two consorts—Mandāravā of Nepal and Yeshe Tsogyal of Tibet—stand as attendants.
The statue is cast in brass, with inlays of copper or magnesium-aluminum alloy highlighting details such as the eyes, lapels, and raised lotus seat. The piece is surmised to be attributed to Mustang, western Nepal; or Ü-Tsang, western Tibet, two regions historically interconnected within the Tibetan cultural sphere. The sculptor has skillfully captured Padmasambhava’s expression, portraying a subtle smile, wide-open eyes, and arched brows—effectively conveying his compassionate yet authoritative presence.