Portrait of Sachen Kunga Nyingpo
Tibet
15th century
Copper alloy
Height: 30 cm

A 15th century copper alloy sculpture representing Sachen Kunga Nyingpo (1092-1158), 30 cm high, is identified by an inscription on the upper surface of the lotus seat. He was the third Abbot of Sakya Monastery that was founded in 1073 by his father Khon Konchok Gyalpo (1034-1102). The portrait, made over two hundred years after Kunga Nyingpo's death, commemorates the importance of lineage in Tibetan Buddhism.

The statue is imbued with a lively spirit, the features accentuated with painted details showing a bald pate and wisps of white hair, beard and moustache.