Unidentified Karmapa hierarch
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Chapel
Orientation 2
Display 4

ABS 186

 Code: ABS 186

  Country: Tibet

  Style:

  Date: 1300 - 1400

  Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 13.3 x 16 x 7.5

  Materials: Brass

Unidentified Karmapa hierarch

The master is sitting on a lotus and a throne, his legs crossed in meditation, covered by a thick cloak. His right hand touches the ground before him while his left hand rests in his lap in the gesture of contemplation. He wears the triple monastic garment. His shaved head is crowned with a hat bearing a diamond motif on the front, topped by the sun and moon. These elements indicate the typical hat of the Karmapa hierarchs of the Kagyü school of Tibetan Buddhism.

The absence of inscription prevents a secure identification, as does the iconography. Due to the lack of colour, it is not possible to determine whether it is a black hat like that of the Karmapas or a red one like that of their disciples, the Shamarpas. These two lineages have in fact identical hats, differing only in colour.

Of beautiful quality, this statue has numerous details and realistic face features. The throne is supported by two pairs of lions, one in full front and the other in profile, and a blazing Triple gem is visible in the middle.