Dharmapala Thangka CentreTibetan Antiques


Gelugpa Lama Tsa Tsa

Dalai Lama ?

Front Side Side View 1 Side View 2 Base Back with cavity for consecration filling

S o l d

This extraordinary Tsa Tsa shows without doubt a Gelugpa Lama on a single layered lotus throne. His Pandita hat and the yellow robe make this determination clear. It is well preserved, but the painting, which was done without primer, led to some minor colour damage over time, especially in the left area of the halo around the Lama. In addition, a small piece has broken off at the top and bottom left.

However, it is difficult to clearly identify the lamb shown. It may be the 13th Dalai Lama Thubten Gyatsho [ *27 May 1876; † 17 December 1933]. Due to his mudras it could also be the 1st Dalai Sönam Gyatsho [ *1543, near Lhasa - † 1588].

The right hand of the Lama holds a gesture of argument [Skt. Vitarkamudra] in front of the chest and a charity bowl in the left hand in Dhyanamudra.

Two white snow lions carry the throne of the lama.

From the throne a red cloth hangs down in folds in the middle. This can be the upper garment of this lama, which serves as a seat base.

Two elephants, two makaras, two dwarves, two Gandharvas and a Kirtimukha at the top are grouped around the outer edge.

The extraordinary splendid design illustrates the outstanding importance that this certainly very special Lama has been given.

Next another detail suggests that this Tsa Tsa is an exceptional object of worship. On the reverse side there is a cavity into the eye which is about 0.3" deep, 2.4" long and 0.4" | 7 mm deep, 6 cm long and 1 cm wide. It certainly served to accommodate a consecration filling.

The hatch-like pattern on the raised surface of the reverse is probably due to the fact that the Tsa Tsa was reinforced with cotton immediately after pressing.

Age: approx. 19th century


PropertyValue
Measurements: 3.9 x 2.6 x 0.9" | 9.8 x 6.6 x 2.2 cm
Price: 205 $ | 190 €
Shipment: Parcel Service from Germany
Material: Burned Clay
High resolution: Display [0.9 MB, 2406 x 2804 px.]
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