There
are twenty-one forms of Tara. The two most important forms
are Green Tara and White Tara. She is a female Buddha and
meditation deity. and was believed to be born from the compassionate
tear of Avalokitesavara. White Tara is the goddess of long
life; and Green Tara grants power to overcome obstructions,
fears and dangers. Her name "tar" is derived from Sanskrit,
which means "to cross over", one who helps sentient beings
to cross over samsara (worldly existence). Tara was introduced
into Tibet in the seventh century, and became the most popular
goddess in Tibet ever since.
Seated
in lalitasala on a double lotus throne, her pendent right
foot supported on a padma, her right hand in varada mudra
and left hand in vitarka mudra, two lotus flowers ornamenting
her shoulders; she is wearing a pleated dhoti, single strand
of pearls, arm bands and necklace with foliate ornaments.
In addition to the opened base, there are restored openings
in the back of her head and body, the jewel stone inlaids
that were once on her earrings, lotus flowers and her large
crown are also missing. Judging from the hand forged works
and incised motifs, particularly the goddess' silver tear-shaped
urna, her large almond-shaped eyes and the tall and narrow
ridged nose, features that are reminiscent of Indian origin.
With three Tibetan characters engraved in the back of the
statue, this Tara goddess is appeared to be completely absent
from Chinese influence; a possible indication that the sculpture
was created in 15th century or earlier.
