The First Gyalwa Karmapa – Düsum Khyenpa
The First Gyalwa Karmapa, Düsum Khyenpa, was born at Treschöd, East Tibet. His father’s name was Dorje Gonop and his mother’s name was Gangcham Mingdren. His parents gave him the name Gephel (dge-‘phel meaning “promoting goodness”). As a young boy, Gephel studied with his fater and when he became older engaged in more studies and meditation practices with other Buddhist scholars of the region. The First Gyalwa Karmapa moved to Central Tibetan when he was 20 and became a monk. A few of his teachers were Chapa Chökyi Sengge and Patsab Lotsawa Nyima Dragpa (the great Madhyamaka philosopher, translator, and founder of the debate system in Tibet), furthermore Yönten Drag, Sherab Dorje, Mal Dulzin, Sönam Rinchen, and Changchub Drag are also listed as his teachers. At that time, Düsum Khyenpa became known by the name Päl Chökyi Dragpa (dpäl-chös-kyi-grags-pa meaning “the illustrious friend of the Dharma”). When he was 30 years old, he went to Daglha Gampo Monastery in Kham, East Tibet, and took up his studies and practice under his root Guru Gampopa.
About this Sculpture
Expertly cast from Copper Alloy using Lost Wax Method with 24 Karat Gold Gilded and Hand Painted Face; this sculpture is a beautiful depiction of the The First Gyalwa Karmapa – Düsum Khyenpa. This sculpture was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan who are considered among the best in the world. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for use in temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.
