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Potala Palace: Fifth Dalai Lama
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Potala Palace: Fifth Dalai Lama
CHINA, Tibet, Lhasa; 18th century; Gilt copper alloy; H: 18.5 cm
Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, the Fifth Dalai Lama, was the first holder of the religious title to assume rule over Tibet. This bronze sculpture from the 18th century strikes a balance between portraying his place in the spiritual hierarchy and, at the same time, conserving his individual appearance. He is depicted as balding, with imperious eyes and a thin drooping mustache. The figure is seated with legs crossed upon a layered, floral cushion. He is dressed in monk's attire with the right hand raised in the vitarka (teaching) mudra while holding the long stalk of a lotus at shoulder height. This element is a reference to his being a manifestation of Avalokitesvara, whose alternative name is Padmapani, the lotus-bearer. |
