Portrait of a lama (teacher) c. 16th century

This small portrait of a lama was cast in bronze by an anonymous artist. Bronze casting is an ancient process, involving the creation of a mold, often from wax, which is then filled with molten metal. Once cooled, the mold is broken away, revealing the final form. The resulting object is strong and durable, yet capable of capturing intricate details, as you can see in the delicate rendering of the lama’s robes and facial features. Consider the labor involved in this process – from mining and smelting the metal, to the skill required for sculpting the original model and managing the casting itself. The warm, golden luster of the bronze, combined with the contemplative pose of the figure, invites a sense of reverence. The very material, and the way it has been shaped, contributes to the spiritual meaning of the work. Appreciating the artistry inherent in its making allows us to look beyond the traditional categories of art and craft.