White Tara – The Divine Mother
Handcrafted 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 is depicted in a posture of graceful contemplative ease with both legs raised and crossed, displaying a regal elegance and serenity. Her right hand is extended downward, palm open, with thumb and index finger touching (as seen in this Handcrafted White Tara Statue). 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 (Abhay 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, 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 Handcrafted White Tara Statue
This exquisite sculpture beautifully captures the essence of White Tara, also known as Dholkar, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. Crafted from copper alloy using the ancient lost wax method and finished with an oxidation process, it stands as a profound representation of the Bodhisattva White Tara—a divine figure revered as Dholkar in Tibetan tradition.
The sculpture displays meticulous handwork, from the finely carved crown to the intricately designed ornaments, befitting a compassionate Bodhisattva dedicated to the well-being of all sentient beings. Noteworthy are the meticulously carved five-pointed crown, necklaces, anklets, armlets, and waist ornaments, which enhance the divine aura of the figure. The finely sculpted monastic robes further contribute to the overall grace of this portrayal.
The beautiful oxidation finish lends a captivating and lifelike quality to the sculpture, with each finely executed detail adding to its aesthetic beauty and spiritual significance.
Handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, by the master artisans of the esteemed Shakya clan—renowned as some of the best in the world—this Handcrafted White Tara Statue is a testament to their exceptional skill and dedication. These artisans are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries, employing sophisticated metalworking techniques that have been passed down through generations since ancient times.
This remarkable piece not only serves as a stunning decorative object but also embodies the profound ideals of compassion, wisdom, and the sacred duty of the Bodhisattva, resonating deeply with those who appreciate the beauty and significance of Buddhist art.
