Green Tara is a fully enlightened female Buddha, known for her protection against the eight fears and her embodiment of active compassion.
Green Tara is shown seated on a lotus pedestal in lalit asana, her right leg slightly extended to indicate her readiness to act. Her right hand rests on her knee in the gesture of generosity, while her left hand forms the vitarka mudra, the gesture of teaching, holding the stem of the utpala lotus. Two lotus blossoms rise beside her shoulders, and she wears the crown and full ornaments of a Bodhisattva.
Her robe, pedestal and the aureole behind her head are adorned with fine filigree patterns. Thin wires are shaped into spirals and filled with small, curved elements; combined with pearl-wire and accents of colored stones, they form subtle floral motifs. Shanta uses this time-intensive technique as an artistic medium, giving the statue a strong and refined presence.
The statue has a calm, composed expression and a well-balanced posture in lalit asana. The proportions are clear, and the gentle tilt of the head gives the figure a sense of attentiveness. The drop-shaped aureole frames the head and underscores the traditional significance of Green Tara within Himalayan iconography.
Shanta Shakya is an artist from Patan working within the Newar tradition of metal statues. Trained in the technique of filigree, his work is guided by artistic intention rather than repetition. He approaches each deity anew, shaping expression, proportion and ornamentation with a sense of creation and individuality. This interpretive quality gives his figures their distinct presence.
Statue made of copper, traditional lost-wax casting, decorated with filigree, gold- and silver-plated, set with colored stones. The figure is patinated for an antique finish. The face is set in gold. Handmade in Nepal.
NOTE
The face painting is a cold gold application and water-soluble.
Yala Craft by Shanta is an Asian company based in Germany. I sell my traditional Buddhist sculpture art, created in my own workshop in Nepal.