Trashigang Monastery: Padmasambhava

BHUTAN, Thimphu

Padmasambhava, who introduced Vajrayana Buddhism to Bhutan, is second only to the Buddha in popularity in Bhutan. Repoussé was used to create the sculpture, and some traces of hammering are still visible.
The figure’s lotus cap is decorated with various symbols and curved ribbons float down from it. Padmasambhava wears jewelry inset with gems. The right hand holds a five-pronged vajra and the left hand holds a covered silver cup, which replaces the original. The figure supports a staff in the crook of his arm and sits in full lotus position on a double lotus throne with lobed Bhutanese petals. The figure’s expression is more benign than commonly found in statues that depict Padmasambhava.