Here we have a charming Tibetan lama
(“chief” or “high priest”) seated in
Dhyana
asana holding a long-life vase in his
upturned
left hand. The trailing Chinese-style
beard and
fan-like hat are typical of the Tibetan
lama in
Kagyu tradition, which was popularized
by
Gampopa Sonam Rinchen – the founder of
the
Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. Shown
with a three-wrinkle brow and near-
closed
eyes, the lama commands respect. The
lama
is clothed in monastic wrappings which
cover
his shoulders, but leave his chest and
right
arm uncovered. The noble garments are
plain
and solid in background color, however,
ornate whorl patterns adorn the ribbings
of
his monastic robes, suggesting his
authoritative status as a chief and
teacher.
The garment folds bundle on the lotus
heart
base, which is nearly touched by the
lama’s
exposed right hand, perhaps suggesting a
degree of groundedness to this high
priest.
This piece is comparable with the 18th
century seated lama in the collection of
the
British Museum. Magnus Allan
- (CB.3418)
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