Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche, 8th century)

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Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche, 8th century)

Bhutan, 17th-18th century
Sculpture
Amalgam gilt copper alloy
5 1/2 x 3 3/4 in. (13.97 x 9.53 cm)
The Francis Eric Bloy Bequest (AC1994.117.2)
South and Southeast Asian Art
Not currently on public view

Curator Notes

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Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche [Precious Teacher]) was a Buddhist master from Uddayana (modern Udiana) in the Swat Valley of Pakistan. He founded Tibet’s first monastery, the Samye Monastery near Lhasa, which was built between 787 and 791. According to the Blue Annals (completed in 1476), he was summoned to Samye to quell local spirits who were thwarting the new faith. Through awesome demonstrations of his powers, he subdued these gods and drew them into the service of Buddhism. Padmasambhava is typically depicted with a distinctive peaked lotus hat, reflective of Gandharan origins, and wearing a monk’s robe. He is frequently scowling to convey his fierce determination in overcoming obstacles and ignorance. He holds a thunderbolt (vajra) and a ritual skull cup (kapala). He sits in the meditation posture (padma asana) on a lotus base. See also M.81.183.1, M.83.218.3, M.86.281, M.86.338.1, AC1997.244.1, and M.2005.154.7.
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