Qing Dynasty Master Tsongkhapa Tibetan Antique Buddha Statues Man Gong Man Jin Shui Nagqu Xiaodeng Temple

The Qing Dynasty Tibetan-style fully-gilded and meticulously crafted statue of Tsongkhapa. Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and a Buddhist scholar, is revered by Tibetans as the 'Second Buddha.' While statues depicting Tsongkhapa are not uncommon, those that have been exquisitely crafted and well-preserved for several hundred years are exceedingly rare. This statue of Tsongkhapa, while not particularly large in size, boasts a thick layer of gold plating on its surface and a solid body, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship with intricate engraving. Every detail is meticulously rendered, with the brilliant gold color enhanced by a soft and delicate patina, giving the entire statue a radiant glow.

The master wears a monk's hat, with a high-bridged nose and a natural expression that emanates clarity and wisdom from his profound gaze. In addition to the vivid facial features, the facial muscles are also meticulously sculpted, adding to the dignity of his rounded face. His hands rest on his knees in the earth-touching mudra, while his legs are crossed in a lotus position on a lotus pedestal, conveying an image of compassion and wisdom. Each arm holds a graceful lotus branch, with buds blooming on either side of his shoulders, offering the Wisdom Sword and the Prajnaparamita Sutra, symbolizing Tsongkhapa as an emanation of Manjushri Bodhisattva. The master is clad in monk robes, with intricately engraved patterns that add depth and detail to the garment.

His legs are crossed in the full lotus posture on a double-layered lotus throne, with large, round, and full petals neatly arranged around the pedestal, giving a sense of stability and solidity. The overall proportions of the statue are symmetrical, with smooth and coherent casting lines, precise and realistic carving, and a delicate and soft patina that enhances the luminous gold color, making this exquisitely crafted statue exceptionally rare and impressive. Moreover, its excellent preservation adds to its rarity.

This statue was graciously obtained by a fellow practitioner in his early years at the Naxi Xiaodeng Temple, making it a particularly auspicious acquisition.