This is a gilt-bronze sculpture of a Drukpa Kagyu Lama. The distinctive hat worn by the figure in this charming sculpture identifies him as a master of the Drukpa Kagyu, founded in the 12th century. Seated on cushion while posing his hands in vitarka and dhyana mudra, these features reflect his identity as a master, teacher, and scholar of Buddhist principles. The Kagyu Tradition developed from the teachings of Naropa and Maitrepa. The main founders of all the sects of the Kagyu are the three Great Masters: Marpa, Milarepa and Gampopa. From these three Masters the Kagyu Lineage scattered into the four major and eight minor Lineages. It was from Gampopa's disciple, Phagmo Drupa that most of these lineages of the Kagyu tradition came, spreading in many different directions. Headed by the Karmapa, presently there are four which have not faded and still exist: the Karma Kagyu, Drukpa Kagyu, Drigung Kagyu and Taglung Kagyu. The Dharma lineages of the others have become very subtle or thin (having mostly been absorbed into larger lineages). Reference: Bonhams, New York, 13 Mar 2017, Lot 3090