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White Tara – Fire-Gilded Himalayan Bronze (ca. 1650 – 1750)

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SKU

380

A rare 17 cm fire-gilded bronze of White Tara (Sitatara), crafted in the Himalayan region around the 17th–18th century. The goddess is shown seated in meditation, gracefully holding two lotus stems symbolizing purity and compassion.

€550.00

Examined with museum-grade analytical methods confirming authentic Himalayan bronze workmanship. The surface retains remains of original 24 kt fire gilding applied by traditional mercury amalgam technique, with granular texture and natural wear consistent with age. Iconography identifies the goddess as White Tara (Sitatara), seated in meditation and holding two lotus stems symbolizing purity and compassion.

Retail valuation (1stbuddha guidance): € 9 500 – € 13 000.

White Tara – Fire-Gilded Himalayan Bronze (ca. 1650 – 1750)

In stock

Description

White Tara – Fire-Gilded Himalayan Bronze (ca. 1650–1750)

White Tara Himalayan fire gilded bronze 17 cm – 1stbuddha.com — White Tara (Sitatara), 17 cm, Himalayan bronze, ca. 1650–1750.

This serene bronze depicts White Tara (Sitatara), the embodiment of compassion and longevity in Vajrayana Buddhism. She sits in full meditation posture, holding two lotus stems rising beside her shoulders — a classic attribute of the peaceful goddess.

Cast by the lost-wax (cire perdue) method, the sculpture retains visible remains of its original 24 kt fire gilding. Under magnification, the gilded areas display the fine-grained crystalline texture typical of mercury amalgam gilding, confirming authentic pre-industrial workmanship. The modelling of the face, crown and jewelry aligns with Himalayan Newar craftsmanship active during the late 17th to early 18th century.

The open chest and subtle smile express the nurturing aspect of Tara’s compassion — a visual metaphor for the divine mother who sustains all beings. The surface shows natural oxidation, traces of red and dark pigments, and no evidence of modern restoration.

Technical Features

Material: Bronze with remains of original 24 kt fire gilding
Technique: Lost-wax casting (cire perdue)
Region: Nepal / West-Tibet (Himalayan area)
Period: ca. 1650 – 1750
Height: 17 cm | Weight 1.3 kg
Condition: Original surface, natural oxidation, no modern restoration

Iconographic Interpretation

White Tara represents the enlightened compassion that grants longevity and healing. The two lotus stems rising from her hands symbolize purity in both speech and mind. Her calm gaze and symmetrical pose reflect complete inner stillness and wisdom.