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Lot Essay
While not identified by inscription, this figure is very closely related to an inscribed late 17th century gilt bronze figure of the Great Fifth Dalai Lama at the Rose Art Museum of Brandeis University (M. Rhie and R. Thurman, Wisdom and Compassion: The Sacred Art of Tibet, New York, 1991, pp.272-73, no.98). In particular, compare the full rounded faces with incised eyes, wide noses and thin pursed lips, as well as the heavy pleated robes and square cushion.
The Great Fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Losang Gyatso (1617-82), is one of the most remarkable characters in Tibetan history. He was a capable statesman, author of numerous books, and an accomplished yogic practitioner. Although trained by Gelugpa clerics, he had a strong affinity for teachings of the Nyingmapa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Great Fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Losang Gyatso (1617-82), is one of the most remarkable characters in Tibetan history. He was a capable statesman, author of numerous books, and an accomplished yogic practitioner. Although trained by Gelugpa clerics, he had a strong affinity for teachings of the Nyingmapa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.