Description
24K Gold Gilded Tsongkhapa Set Figurine | Symbols of Wisdom
This Tsongkhapa Set Figurine, the respected founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and his two most important disciples, Gyalsab Je, and Khedrup Je. The set depicts their profound spiritual knowledge and teachings, providing an encouraging representation of enlightenment and guidance. Tsongkhapa's primary figure, standing 19.3" (Height) x 13.2" (Base), is supported by portrayals of Gyalsab Je and Khedrup Je, both measuring 15.2" (Height) x 9.8" (Base). The sculptures, which weigh 19.92 kg, are made of copper and adorned with triple layer 24K gold gilding and delicate gold and acrylic paints with 3D-like carvings emphasizing their spiritual presence and great craftsmanship.
In the middle of this sculpture sits Tsongkhapa, who is highly regarded for his profound study and moral life. His two most important pupils, Gyaltsab Je, and Khedrub Je, are shown on either side of him, and they both contributed significantly to the founding and growth of the Gelug tradition. We can see the highly revered Buddhist preacher, Tsongkhapa performing the 'Dharmachakra mudra,' a gesture representing the the master's role as a spiritual leader. The two disciples can be seen forming the 'Vitraka mudra,' discussion and transmission of the Buddha's teachings. This set is not just a work of art but a visual representation of the Gelug tradition’s teachings, values, and devotion.
Tsongkhapa Size: 19.3”/49cm (Height) x 13.2”/33.5cm (Base)
Gyaltsab Je Size: 15.2”/38.5cm (Height) x 9.8”/25cm (Base)
Khedrup Je Size: 15.2”/38.5cm (Height) x 9.8”/25cm (Base)
Total Weight: 19.92 kg
Material: 24K Gold Gilded, Gold & Acrylic Paintings, Copper Body
Tsongkhapa (1357–1419) is a well-known Tibetan religious philosopher. A devout monastic, Tsongkhapa took on the difficult task of locating and studying all of the Indian Buddhist classics available in Tibet in his day. In his iconic form, wearing a tall yellow hat, he is the center of the Gelugpa sect that was dominant in Tibet until the Chinese takeover in 1951, and whose de facto leader is the Dalai Lama.
Gyaltsab Je was Lama Tsongkhapa's most famous student. He oversaw the building of Gaden Monastery (established by Lama Tsongkhapa) and was named its second monk after Tsongkhapa. After Lama Tsongkhapa's death, he became the Gaden Tripa, or "holder of the Gaden Throne," the Gelug tradition's head.
Khedrup Je was a prolific author, writing fifty-eight treatises and numerous prayer books. His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, uses an essential scripture on Kalachakra as the foundation for his Kalachakra Tantra empowerment.