Marpa lived between 1012 and 1097 and is renowned as one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism. He travelled from Tibet to India in search of rare tantric texts and on his return to Tibet he became their sole teacher and transmitted them to a few select disciples. He was remarked on for his sense of strictness which sometimes became quite frightening to his disciples. The image which might be dated to about the 15th century shows him with a rather gentle look on his face but a certain firmness may also be noted as well. His hands are held in the position that is the same as that of the Buddha Shakyamuni telling the viewer that the spiritual realization Marpa had attained was the same as that of the Buddha himself.
His robes are beautifully depicted and closely follow the contours of his body, arrayed as they are in perfect folds. His bright silver inlaid eyes lend the image a sense of piercing direct insight which is a feature of Marpa's teachings.
He sits on a lotus of purity which in turn is located on top of a throne supported by lions. The Buddha's teachings were referred to as the 'Lion's roar' and the lion is still regarded as the emblematic animal-protector of Tibet.
The back of the base with a line of Tibetan inscription.
14.5cm high
Estimate $2,000 - $3,000
Overall in good condition, the base plaque is missing.
The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.
A private collection, Sydney.
Important Chinese & Asian Art
AUCTION
Sale: LJ8825
11:00am - 25 October 2026
Hawthorn
VIEWING
Thurs 22 - Sat 24 October, 11am - 5pm
2 Oxley Rd, Hawthorn VIC
CONTACT
Luke Guan
luke.guan@leonardjoel.com.au
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