The Goddess Tara
Nepal, 12th century
Copper alloy with gilt, pigment and semi-precious stones
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Gift of Doris and Ed Wiener, M. 72.108.8

Tara, whose name means "one who saves," is among the most popular Bodhisattvas. She may ultimately derive from an indigenous Mother Nature cult figure, symbolizing the creative principle of life. She is considered the Mother of all Buddhas -- past, present and future. Tara's many emanations help humanity to overcome emotional difficulties and physical dangers.

According to popular legend, Tara was born out of a lotus that germinated from the tears of Avalokitesvara as he lamented the world's sufferings. She is often represented holding a lotus flower, symbolizing her miraculous birth. As a guiding deity, the initiate meditates upon an image of Tara according to the instructions contained in the Tara Tantra that embodies the knowledge to reach perfected wisdom.

In her role as a saviouress, Tara is shown with one hand facing out, offering peace, longevity, and good wishes. Her elegant form, emphasized by the sinuous S-curve of her stance, is characteristic of Nepali art. She originally stood on a lotus-shaped base.