Hand Painted Face Dukkar / Ushnisha Sitatapatra Copper Statue from Patan, Nepal

Dukkar / Ushnisha Sitatapatra Statue

 Dukar / Chatra Tara – The Goddess of the White Parasol

Dukar, also called Ushnisha Sitatapatra, is a special protective aspect of Tara known as the Goddess of the White Parasol. It is believed that Sitatapatra is a power independent deity emanated by Gautama Buddha from his Ushinisha. The Sanskrit-origin name, Sitatapatra, translates to ‘white parasol’, indicative of her gentle yet protective attribute. She is venerated in both the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. She protects all beings from the Eight Great Fears of pride, ignorance, anger, envy, wrong views, avarice, attachment, and doubt. These mental factors are called fears because they cause suffering and are therefore to be feared and avoided. Dukar's parasol, or umbrella, indicates her ability to protect sentient beings from sufferings such as floods, fires, earthquakes and other natural catastrophes, sickness and disease, as well as from interference by spirits and other negative forces. She is an invincible protector against every form of supernatural danger; such as demons, black magic, and astrologically ordained mishaps. Dukar is especially revered in regions of Tibet, China, and Mongolia.

Gestures and Attributes

Dukar is depicted in in a posture of graceful with both legs raised and crossed like that of White Tara, displaying a regal elegance and serenity. She has white body color with seven eyes including the one in the center of her forehead, two on palms and two eyes on her feet. She holds the Dharma Wheel in her right hand and the white umbrella in her left hand.

About this Sculpture

This sculpture is an exceptionally beautiful portrayal of Dukkar / Ushnisha Sitatapatra. Expertly cast from copper alloy using lost wax method gilded with 24 karat gold and hand painted face which is beautifully decorated with Turquoise and Coral stones; this sculpture is a profound representation of Bodhisattva Dukkar / Ushnisha Sitatapatra. The Goddess of the White Parasol sits gracefully as she holds the Dharma Wheel in her right hand and the left hand holds the White Umbrella. She wears a finely carved crown and the elegantly detailed ornaments of a Bodhisattva, signifying his compassionate vow to work for the benefit of sentient beings. Her necklaces, anklets, arm and waist ornaments, in particular, are beautifully and intricately carved. Her monastic robes are also finely carved. And over all, the stunning rich gold gilding, the fine hand carvings and decorated with stones gives it look more beautiful and live. This sculpture was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan who are considered among the best in the world. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for use in temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.