Object Details
Catalogue Note
Dimensions: H 11.5 × W 7.5 × D 3 cm
Weight: approx. 100 g
Material: Hand-carved wood with original red pigment traces
Period: 19th century
Origin: Himalayan region
Subject: Seated Tara
Provenance: Former Peter Hardt Gallery museum collection, Germany
Catalogue Note
This intimate Himalayan devotional sculpture represents Tara seated in a calm posture within a leaf-shaped aureole carved from the same block of wood. Its modest scale and closed, plain reverse are consistent with a figure made for a household shrine or personal altar.
Original red pigment remains across the face, torso and hands. Softened edges, accumulated patina and even natural wear show the object's age, with no signs of modern repainting or restoration.
Iconography and Context
Tara is a central bodhisattva of compassion and protection in Himalayan Buddhism. Her poised posture and graceful gestures combine contemplative calm with the idea of compassionate action.
Condition and Display
The carved hand-carved wood with original red pigment traces retains visible grain, tool-work and naturally varied colour. The 4 photographs document the carving, profiles, reverse and age-related surface character as part of the condition assessment.
