Bronze, patinated
China / Tibet, 20th century
Tsongkhapa (1357-1419) – Tibetan reformer and founder of the Gelugpa school
Figure with partly open work
Seated with base plate
Fine chased elements
Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 13.5 cm (height x width x depth)
Good condition
Provenance: from an important private collection

This patinated bronze was made in the 20th century and depicts Tsongkhapa, Tibetan reformer and founder of the Gelugpa school. He is seated inpadmasana on a lotus pedestal with his feet turned upwards on lotus pedestal, whose flowers are worked in sharp relief. The hands are raised to the chest and Tsongkhapa form with each thumb and forefinger the gesture of explaining, thevitarka Mudra. Each hand is also holding a lotus branch, which grows up to the shoulders and shows attributes on its blossoms. The chased garment covers the body of Tsongkhapa and a hat adorns his head. The figure is sealed with a base plate with Chinese inscription.



The figure is in good condition with slight signs of age and wear. Some patina abrasion as well as small scratches on the underside are visible. The figure measures 20 cm in height, 14 cm in width and 13.5 cm in depth.



Gelugpa

Gelugpa is a school, which is founded in the 15th century and means literally ‘school of the virtuous’. At its head is the Dalai Lama. The focus of this school is located on the Buddhist scriptures and the observance of monastic rules. Through this compliance the Gelugpa managed to remove the state power in this century.

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