Nepalese Dorje Legpa Protector Riding a Snow Lion

A wide flat hat, a raised arm and a snow lion in full stride, framed in flames.

This figure of Dorje Legpa, protector riding a snow lion, comes from Nepal, 20th century, in bronze and copper alloy. In Tibetan Buddhist tradition, Dorje Legpa is an oath-bound guardian of the teachings, called upon to protect practitioners, and is often shown wearing just such a broad hat. He sits astride the snarling lion with one arm lifted high. A pierced flaming halo rises behind him, and the base is a beaded oval of lotus petals. Seven inches high.

A guardian who looks ready to ride at a moment's notice.