Green Tara / Dholma – The Saviouress
Dholma on Lion Statue: Green Tara is a prominent figure in Buddhist tradition, especially within Tibetan Buddhism. She is a Bodhisattva, representing enlightened activity, compassion, and the wish to relieve suffering. The Green Tara / Dholma is often depicted seated on a lotus throne, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The addition of a lion in Green Tara’s iconography introduces the aspect of her riding a lion.
The lion is a powerful symbol in Buddhism, representing strength, fearlessness, and the triumph over ignorance. When Green Tara / Dholma is depicted riding a lion, it emphasizes her fearless and protective qualities. This imagery conveys the idea that Green Tara / Dholma, with her compassionate and enlightened nature, fearlessly treads the path to alleviate the suffering of sentient beings.
Key features of the Green Tara on Lion iconography include:
- Green Tara’s Posture:
- Green Tara / Dholma is typically depicted in a posture of ease, with one leg slightly extended, symbolizing her readiness to come to the aid of those in need.
- Mudras:
- Green Tara / Dholma often exhibits specific hand gestures or mudras, with her right hand in the gesture of supreme generosity, symbolizing her ability to fulfill the wishes of devotees.
- Lion Symbolism:
- The lion, often portrayed as her mount, symbolizes fearlessness and majesty. It signifies her ability to overcome obstacles and protect practitioners on their spiritual journey.
- Lotus Throne:
- Green Tara / Dholma is commonly shown seated on a lotus throne, indicating her transcendence over the impurities of the material world.
- Compassionate Expression:
- Green Tara Dholma is depicted with a compassionate expression, reflecting her commitment to alleviating suffering and aiding those in need.
The Green Tara / Dholma on Lion is a powerful representation that combines the compassionate qualities of Green Tara with the symbol of the lion’s strength and fearlessness. The imagery serves as an inspiration for practitioners on their spiritual path, encouraging them to cultivate compassion and courage in their pursuit of enlightenment. As with any religious or spiritual representation, interpretations may vary across different traditions and lineages within Buddhism.
About this Dholma on Lion Statue
This exquisite sculpture beautifully captures the essence of Green Tara, also known as Dholma, riding a lion, symbolizing her fearlessness and majestic presence. Crafted from copper alloy through the revered lost wax method, the statue boasts an oxidation finish with silver plating, imparting a captivating and rich aesthetic.
Every detail of the statue is finely carved, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of the artisans. The harmonious combination of oxidation finish and silver plating enhances its beauty, giving it a vibrant and lifelike appearance.
Individually crafted in Patan, Nepal, by the esteemed master artisans of the Shakya clan, globally recognized as among the finest, this sculpture is a testament to their dedication and skill. As modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition, these craftsmen specialize in creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques utilized in its creation have been handed down through generations since ancient times, adding a profound historical and cultural dimension to this exceptional piece.
