The Twelfth Gyalwa Karmapa – Changchub Dorje (1703 – 1732)
The 12th Gyalwa Karmapa Statue: The Twelfth Gyalwa Karmapa, Changchub Dorje was born at Kyile Tsagto in the province of Derge, East Tibet, just as predicted by the Eleventh Karmapa. His father’s name was Karma Tseten, and his mother’s name was Karmo Kyid. Two months after he was born, the child declared that he was the Karmapa. Tertön Mingyur Rinpoche confirmed the incarnation immediately and told Karma Tseten that one day he would be able to give up his job selling pottery because his son would become one of the greatest masters in all Tibet. Envoys of the Eighth Shamar arrived in Kyile Tsagto, found the boy, and took him to Tsurphu Gon. The Shamar met and recognized him as the reincarnation of the Eleventh Karmapa, his Root Guru. Changchub Dorje was enthroned with the Black Vajra Crown as the Twelfth Gyalwa Karmapa at Tsurphu Gon and given all belongings from his past life as well as the entire Mahamudra transmissions and teachings. The young Karmapa then studied under many illustrious masters, also under Sönam Phuntsok.
Changchub Dorje imparted the profound Kagyü Mahamudra teachings to the supreme Nyingma master of Kathok Monastery, who in turn gave the sacred Nyingma Dzogchen teachings that he had received to the Karmapa. A few words about the Kathok Tradition.
About this The Sculpture
Expertly cast from copper alloy using the traditional lost wax method and submitted to an oxidation process, this sculpture beautifully depicts the 12th Gyalwa Karmapa, Changchub Dorje. The 12th Gyalwa Karmapa Statue is intricately hand-carved, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and fine details. The oxidation finish enhances its beauty, giving the sculpture a lifelike presence.
This masterpiece was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan, who are renowned for their exceptional skill and artistry. These craftsmen are the modern heirs of a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. Their fine metalworking techniques have been meticulously passed down from generation to generation, preserving the rich heritage of their craft.
This sculpture not only serves as a stunning work of art but also as a profound representation of spiritual significance, embodying the essence of the 12th Gyalwa Karmapa, Changchub Dorje.
