Untitled

Unknown

12th–early 13th century · Gilt-copper alloy with color and gold paint · Asian Art

Tara is the supreme savior and goddess of mercy in Vajrayana Buddhism, best understood as a female counterpart to a bodhisattva. She stands gracefully, extending her open hand is a gesture of granting boons (varada mudra) to devotees. The lotus in full bloom and her golden face suggest she is understood as Sitatara, (“White Tara”), a female form of Avalokiteshvara Padmapani.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th–early 13th century

Medium

Gilt-copper alloy with color and gold paint

Culture

Nepal (Kathmandu Valley)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1982