The sculptor has achieved a mystical antiquated
appearance in this Nepalese statue of Green Tara, reminding us of her epithet-
Shyama Tara or the dark Tara. The aesthetic artwork has been modeled from a
carefully selected mother rock, which enshrines a beautiful blue stone inside
its dark outer cover. The goddess has been adorned masterfully with exquisite
turquoise, lapis lazuli, and coral along with silver. A golden slip on Tara’s
visage enlightens the artwork, instilling in it a stunning beauty.
Embodiment of Compassion and Protection
This exquisite statue captures the serene and benevolent form of Green Tara, a revered bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, particularly prominent in Tibetan Buddhism. Known as the "Mother of Liberation," Green Tara is the embodiment of enlightened activity and swift compassion. She is believed to protect beings from the eight great fears, such as pride, ignorance, anger, jealousy, wrong views, attachment, miserliness, and delusion. Her vibrant green hue symbolizes her active, compassionate nature and her ability to overcome obstacles.
The artistry of this piece, originating from Nepal, showcases a deep understanding of Buddhist iconography and traditional craftsmanship. Crafted from stone and meticulously adorned with silver and gold, the statue radiates a divine aura. The intricate details in the stonework, combined with the precious metals, bring Green Tara to life. Her serene expression, with half-closed eyes in meditation, signifies her profound wisdom and inner peace. The delicate rendering of her facial features, adorned with subtle gold accents, conveys her divine grace.
Symbolism and Iconography
Green Tara is depicted in a relaxed posture, with her right leg extended and her left leg folded in a meditative pose. This posture, known as *lalitasana* or the "royal ease," symbolizes her readiness to descend and offer assistance. In her left hand, she holds the stem of a lotus flower, a potent symbol of purity and enlightenment, which blooms with her right hand reaching out in the *varada mudra*, the gesture of bestowing blessings and fulfilling wishes. The presence of the blue lotus, the *utpala*, signifies her connection to the celestial realms and her power to overcome suffering.
The detailed ornamentation further enhances the spiritual significance of the statue. The silver and gold inlays highlight her divine adornments – the jeweled crown, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets – each carrying symbolic meaning. The vibrant turquoise and coral stones embedded within the silverwork represent vitality, healing, and the overcoming of obstacles. These precious materials not only add to the aesthetic beauty but also imbue the statue with auspicious energies.
A Legacy of Devotion
Green Tara has been a source of inspiration and solace for countless devotees for centuries. Tales abound of her miraculous interventions, offering protection and guidance to those in need. Her essence is often described as that of a mother who patiently nurtures and protects her children from all forms of danger, both internal and external. This statue serves as a powerful reminder of her constant presence and unwavering support, inviting practitioners to cultivate their own compassion and wisdom. This piece, born from the rich spiritual heritage of Nepal, is not merely an object of art but a conduit for devotion, a focal point for meditation, and a beautiful representation of the enlightened feminine principle.
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