White Tara / Dolkar – The Divine Mother
Dolkar White Tara Statue: White Tara’s compassion for living beings and her desire to save them from suffering is said to be even stronger than a mother’s love for her children. As the personification of enlightened maternal compassion, she has infinite sympathy for those facing the challenges of worldly existence. She is the female aspect of the universe and the source of all life; thus, she lovingly engenders, nourishes and smiles at the vitality of creation. Meditation on the goddess grants health, long life, fearlessness, patience and peace; and she is especially cherished for her swiftness in responding to the prayers of those who call upon her. Her color white symbolizes her radiant purity, but white also expresses her fundamental nature, which is ultimate Truth, complete and undifferentiated.
Gestures and Attributes
White Tara / Dolkar is depicted in a posture of graceful contemplative ease with both legs raised and crossed, displaying a regal elegance and serenity like shown in this Dolkar White Tara Statue. Her right hand is extended downward, palm open, with thumb and index finger touching. This hand position is known as Varada Mudra, or the gesture of granting wishes and protection. Her left hand, raised to shoulder height with fingers extended and palm turned outward, is in the gesture of granting refuge and freeing from fears (Abhaya Mudra). Each of her hands also holds the stem of a beautiful lotus flower that floats above her shoulder as a symbol of her radiant purity and power. A distinctive characteristic of White Tara / Dolkar, shown in this representation, is her seven eyes. She has the two usual eyes plus one in the center of her forehead and one in each of her hands and feet. These eyes indicate that she sees all the suffering and cries for help in the universe and symbolize her divine omniscience.
About this Dolkar White Tara Statue
This sculpture eloquently captures the essence of White Tara, also known as Dolkar, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. Crafted from copper alloy using the lost wax method, adorned with 24-karat gold, and meticulously hand-painted, it stands as a profound representation of the Bodhisattva White Tara—a divine figure recognized as Dolkar in Tibetan tradition.
The sculpture exhibits exquisite details, from the finely carved crown to the intricately designed ornaments befitting a compassionate Bodhisattva dedicated to the well-being of sentient beings. Noteworthy are the meticulously carved necklaces, anklets, armlets, and waist ornaments, enhancing the divine aura of the figure. The monastic robes, finely sculpted, add to the overall grace of the portrayal.
The rich gold gilding, complemented by a vibrant red color on the lower half, imparts a captivating and lifelike quality to the sculpture. Each detail, expertly executed, contributes to the statue’s aesthetic beauty and spiritual significance.
Crafted in Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the esteemed Shakya clan, known among the world’s best, this sculpture is a testament to their skill and dedication. These artisans, modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition, specialize in crafting sacred art for temples and monasteries. The sophisticated metalworking techniques employed in this creation have been passed down through generations since ancient times, adding a profound historical dimension to this exquisite piece.
