Thangtong Gyalpo (1361-1485)
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Chapel
Orientation 2
Display 1

ABS 012

 Code: ABS 012

  Country: Tibet (central)

  Style:

  Date: 1500 - 1550

  Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 10.5 x 16 x 7.7

  Materials: Brass

Thangtong Gyalpo (1361-1485)

This portrait-statue represents famous Tibetan master Thangton Gyalpo (1361-1485) under the guise of an aged yogi with his long hair tied in an intricate topknot, a mustache and a goatee. Sitting legs crossed in meditation on a lotus pedestal, almost naked, he is clad in a meditation shawl. His right hand raised in argumentation, his left rests in his lap in contemplation, both hands holding medicinal pills. These are associated to longevity practices of which Thangtong Gyalpo was an accomplished master.

Architect, sculptor, painter, and physician, this major religious figure is especially revered as the inventor of Tibetan opera. Thangtong Gyalpo is also known all over Tibet for the iron chain bridges he built, some of which still exists.