In the Himalayan Buddhist tradition, the goddess Tara is evoked in her 21 forms, which are expansions of Green Tara—the embodiment of compassionate activity . Each of the 21 Taras represents a different aspect of enlightened compassion, offering protection from specific fears and bestowing various blessings. Together, they create a complete mandala of feminine wisdom, with the central Green Tara figure serving as the unifying source from which all 21 manifestations arise. This set follows the Atisha tradition, revered by practitioners seeking to earn merits in different aspects of life .
· Total Height: 98 cm (including throne and mandorla)
· Main Figure Height: 45 cm (central Green Tara)
· 21 Small Tara Figures Height: Approximately 10-12 cm each
· Material: Pure copper with traditional gilt (gold-plated) and hand-painted finish
· Style: Set of 21 Taras with elaborate Vajrasana throne and mandorla
· Origin: Masterwork hand-carved in Nepal
· Ideal for: Meditation space, home altar centerpiece, spiritual art collection, temple hall, contemplative practice environment
This magnificent 98cm Set of 21 Taras represents the pinnacle of Nepalese master craftsmanship—a pure copper hand-carved masterwork featuring traditional gold-gilding, hand-painted details, an elaborately carved Vajrasana throne, and a stunning mandorla that frames the entire assembly in radiant splendor.
The 45cm central Green Tara figure sits in lalitasana—the posture of royal ease—with her right leg extended, symbolizing her readiness to rise and spring into action to protect beings from danger. Her right hand rests on her knee in varada mudra (the gesture of supreme giving), bestowing blessings and fulfilling the wishes of those who call upon her. Her left hand holds the stem of a blue utpala lotus that blossoms at her shoulder, representing purity emerging from the muddy waters of samsara. Her serene expression embodies the swift compassion of the Mother of Liberation.
Surrounding the central figure, twenty smaller Tara statues are arranged in a harmonious composition, each one individually hand-carved with unique attributes, gestures, and colors that distinguish her specific function among the 21 forms . Each Tara holds her own symbolic implements and sits upon her own miniature lotus throne, creating a complete mandala of enlightened feminine energy. Some hold blue lotuses, others hold golden vessels of abundance, and each displays distinct mudras representing protection, generosity, or meditation .
The Vajrasana throne—the "Diamond Throne"—is itself a masterpiece of Himalayan artistry. Elaborately carved with multiple layers of lotus petals, auspicious symbols (the eight auspicious signs), and intricate geometric patterns, the throne elevates the entire composition while symbolizing the indestructible nature of enlightened compassion. The multiple tiers represent the stages of the path, culminating in the central Tara's perfect realization.
The elaborate mandorla behind the assembly is exquisitely designed with flame patterns, scrolling vegetation, and protective symbols, representing the radiant light of compassionate activity that emanates from the 21 Taras. The flames symbolize their power to burn away all fears and obstacles, while the parasol-shaped dome of the mandorla echoes the protective energy they offer to all beings.
Every element of this masterwork reflects profound spiritual significance. The 21 Taras include forms such as:
· Green Tara (Syamatara) : The central figure, embodying enlightened activity and swift protection
· White Tara (Sitatara) : Representing long life, healing, and serene compassion
· Red Tara (Kurukulla) : The goddess of magnetizing positive qualities
· Yellow Tara (Vasya Tara) : Bestowing prosperity and abundance
· Blue Tara (Ekajati) : The fierce protector who destroys obstacles
· And many other forms, each with unique attributes and blessings
Expertly hand-carved from pure copper by master artisans of Nepal, this substantial 98cm masterwork captures every intricate detail: the serene expressions of all 21 Taras with their subtle smiles, the precise positioning of their hands in various mudras, the delicate folds of their flowing celestial garments, the gracefully curling stems of their lotus flowers, and the elaborate throne and mandorla that frame the entire sacred assembly.
The traditional gilt (gold-plated) finish adds radiant luminosity to the entire sculpture, honoring the precious nature of enlightened compassion. Multiple layers of 24k gold are carefully applied, creating a warm, glowing surface that catches light and draws the eye to the Taras' graceful presence. The hand-painted details bring each Tara to life with traditional mineral pigments—greens, whites, reds, yellows, and blues—applied in layers to create depth and luminosity, distinguishing each of the 21 forms according to traditional iconographic conventions.
The combination of the 45cm central figure with the twenty smaller Taras and the elaborate 98cm throne-and-mandorla assembly creates a powerful visual presence that dominates any sacred space. The throne elevates the Taras both physically and symbolically, while the mandorla frames them in protective radiance, reminding us that compassion is the highest achievement, yet one that remains accessible to all who call upon the Taras.
As the embodiment of compassionate activity, the 21 Taras hold a central place in Himalayan Buddhist practice . Their mantra—"Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha"—is recited for protection, healing, and the removal of obstacles on the spiritual path. The 21 forms are revered while chanting the verses dedicated to them, each form helping the devotee earn merits in different aspects of life .
This 98cm Set of 21 Taras masterwork serves as the ultimate focal point for any meditation hall, temple space, or serious practitioner's altar. Their collective presence creates a sacred atmosphere that supports deep contemplative practice, inspires devotion, and reminds us of the boundless compassionate activity that is always available to protect and guide beings on the path.
Each piece is individually hand-carved and finished as a unique masterwork by master artisans of Nepal, with subtle variations that reflect its authentic handmade origin and artistic heritage from the Kathmandu Valley. The combination of pure copper construction, radiant gold-gilding, traditional hand-painted mineral pigments, master-level carving, and the elaborate throne-and-mandorla design with twenty-one individually crafted Tara figures represents the finest in Himalayan sacred art—a transmission of living artistic tradition and the timeless, compassionate presence of the 21 Taras who protect all beings without exception .
