Tibetan Sculpture of Tsongkhapa Set | 24K Gold Gilded Statue
This handmade sculpture of the Tsongkhapa Set stands at a Size: 13”/33cm (Height) and 9.1”/23cm (Base). Made up of copper, covered with a triple layer of 24K gold gilding, and carved with deeply engraved carvings that produce a magnificent 3D-like effect. This sculpture, handcrafted by expert Nepalese artisans, elegantly symbolizes Himalayan Buddhism's sacred traditions, making it an appropriate addition to altars, meditation places, or sacred collections.
Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school, is seen sitting in tranquil meditation, symbolizing knowledge and compassion. His followers, Gyaltsab Je and Khedrup Je, flank him, representing knowledge transmission and teaching continuity. Each figure is meticulously created, demonstrating the rich beauty of Patan's talented artisans. The three sculptures' perfect construction makes them an excellent complement to any shrine, meditation space, or spiritual gift.
This Tsongkhapa Set serves as both a sign of academic and spiritual mastery, as well as a reminder of the route to enlightenment via discipline, compassion, and wisdom. When displayed together, these statues elicit a deep sense of awe and inspire dedication to the teachings of the enlightened masters.
Tshongkhapa Size: 13”/33cm (Height) x 9.1”/23cm (Base)
Je Gyaltsab Size: 10.6”/27cm (Height) x 7.7”/19.5cm (Base)
Je Khedrup Size: 10.6”/27cm (Height) x 7.7”/19.5cm (Base)
Materials: 24K Gold Gilded, Copper Body, Gold and Acrylic Paintings
Total weight: 9.47kg
Tsongkhapa (1357–1419) was a highly revered Tibetan religious philosopher and devoted monastic. He dedicated his life to the study of Indian Buddhist texts, seeking out and mastering all the classical teachings available in Tibet during his time. In his well-known depiction, he is seen wearing a tall yellow hat, symbolizing his role as the founder of the Gelug school, which remained the dominant Buddhist tradition in Tibet until China’s takeover in 1951. The Dalai Lama is considered the de facto leader of this tradition.
Among Tsongkhapa’s most distinguished disciples was Gyaltsab Je, who played a key role in the construction of Gaden Monastery, an institution founded by Tsongkhapa himself. He was appointed as the monastery’s second abbot and, following Tsongkhapa’s passing, assumed the position of Gaden Tripa—the official head of the Gelug tradition.
Another prominent student, Khedrup Je, was a prolific scholar, having authored fifty-eight treatises along with numerous prayer texts. His works continue to hold great significance, and one of his key writings on Kalachakra serves as the foundation for the Kalachakra Tantra empowerment bestowed by His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama.