Zanabazar Was The First Jebtsundamba Khutukhtu

Öndör Gegeen Zanabazar is widely regarded as the most influential Mongol figure in the development of Buddhist art. His activities marked many important moments in the context of political, historical, and cultural aspects, as they heralded a new era for the Mongols. His Buddhist sculptures are considered sophisticated masterpieces, a craftsmanship of the highest quality. Zanabazar is credited to have single-handedly brought Vajrayāna Buddhism to Mongolia. Buddhist rituals, texts, temple construction, Buddhist art, and even designs for Mongolian monastic robes are all attributed to his contribution.

He was a scholar of Buddhism and a poet and it is said that his mental gifts matched equally his talent for art. It is agreed by everyone that Zanabazar drove the cultural resurgence of Mongolia all by himself. He established his artwork as a diplomatic tool to help the Khalkha Mongols survive and keep their political power. To this day, many people continue to draw inspiration from him as he motivates others to reach their peak abilities while shining hope onto their lives.

Zanabazar's Early Journey: Life Before His Legacy

Zanabazar entered the world as Eshidorji, the second son of Khandojamtso and Tusheet Khan Gombodorj within a well-known Khalkha Mongolian family in 1635 in the Yesönzüil Southern Mongolian region. He descended from the same family tree as Genghis Khan. To be precise, Eshidorji descended from Abtai Sain Khan (1554–1588). Following Abtai Sain Khan's footsteps, he actively promoted Vajrayana among the Khalkha Mongols and provided significant support to the Gelug school. The young Eshidorji displayed outstanding devotion, intelligence, and perfect recitation skills of the Praise of Manjushri (Jambaltsanjod prayer), even before turning four.

In time, Eshidorji obtained his position as the highest religious leader and great saint title (Ondor Gegeen) under the Khalkha noble assembly. A significant milestone in Eshidorji's spiritual journey occurred in 1649 when the 5th Dalai Lama formally recognized him as the 15th reincarnation (Khutuktu) of Jebtsundamba, thus establishing his status as the spiritual leader of Mongolian Buddhists. This recognition elevated his religious authority and further solidified his role as a bridge between Mongolian Buddhism and the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Return to Mongolia and Artistic Revolution

Upon returning to Mongolia, Zanabazar devoted every aspect of his life to expanding Buddhism and enhancing his artistic skills. He gained recognition as both a religious leader and artist while establishing art workshops, which then evolved into the main creative hub of developing artistic heritage for Mongolia. Quickly after, Zanabazar started to create his sculptural masterpieces; people began to recognize them because of their complex details and deep spiritual content. His remarkable spiritual connection enabled him to transform his religious adoration into divine sculptures that embodied sacred life forces together with refined transcendent beauty. By harmonizing devotion to deities with beauty in his artwork, he established a permanent influence that changed the direction of Mongolian Buddhist art for subsequent years.

The Distinctive Artistic Legacy of Zanabazar: A Revolution

Zanabazar's artistic legacy stands out in Buddhism due to their distinctive yet balanced proportions, detailed intricacies, tranquil expressions and naturalism, embodying a deep spiritual essence. He mainly used gilt bronze for his sculptures, applying the lost-wax casting method to create hollow forms that are both resilient and richly detailed. 

The highlight of his artwork is the statue's facial features, which stand out due to their perfect symmetry and calm expressions. Typical traits include the following:

• almond-shaped eyes that convey a thoughtful gaze
• youthful faces with rounded cheeks
• slender curved eyebrows that blend into a gently arched nose
• soft smiles
• perfectly elongated earlobes that reflect the auspicious qualities of the Buddha.

Notable Works

Among his masterpieces are the statues of Green Tara and White Tara, which exemplify his ability to depict feminine beauty with exquisite craftsmanship. These sculptures are celebrated for their peaceful and contemplative demeanor, embodying the quintessence of Buddhist teachings. Others include:

• Statue of Maitreya (Future Buddha)
• Statue of Buddha Shakyamuni
• Statue of Avalokiteshvara
• Statue of Samvara (with Consort)
• Statue of Five Dhyani Buddhas and many more.

Zanabazar’s Iconic Sculptures and Their Termatree Inspirations

Zanabazar created artworks that showcased not just his technical skill but also deep spiritual meaning. His renowned sculptures have stood the test of time, impacting Mongolian Buddhist art and inspiring copies in different areas. At Termatree, both the original statues and their replicas highlight Zanabazar's lasting influence, maintaining the spiritual essence and artistry that characterized his work. In the following sections, we will delve into the original sculptures by Zanabazar and the intriguing inspirational statues housed at Termatree.

1. Manjushri Making the Dharmachakra Mudra

While statues of Manjushri are a common drift in the field of Buddhist arts and craft, but the Bodhisattva making the Dharmachakra Mudra is a rare scene. In most of the depictions, he is usually showcased holding a sword in his right hand and holding the sacred Prajnaparamita in his left hand. Here, the experienced artisans of Termatree have been inspired by Zanabazar's Manjushri with the"Wheel of Dharma" gesture with the same serene facial expression.

However, the drastic difference in the iconography of both statues is their stature, as the Mongolian sculpture stands symbolizing Manjushri's dynamic wisdom. Meanwhile, Termatree has ensured the traditional and more common seated position for the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. Similarly, our seated Manjushri also radiates with the majestic halo behind his head, the highlight of our creation.

Take a closer look at Termatree's Manjushri "Tikshna" Statue.

2. Vairocana Buddha Making the Mudra of the Six Elements

Another rare piece that Termatree once displayed was the above Vairocana Buddha making the Mudra of the Six Elements. In this mudra, the supreme Buddha's right hand's five fingers clasp the index finger of the left hand. The five fingers represent the five elements of the material world—earth, water, fire, air, and ether (space). Meanwhile, the clasped index finger of his left hand signifies consciousness or mind, the sixth element in this mudra.

Given the rarity of the mudra itself, the original gilt bronze Zanabazar statue is a sight to behold! Similarly, the skilled artisans at Termatree made every effort to faithfully replicate the original artwork, drawing inspiration from its design and craftsmanship. From the flowing elegant hair locks, intricate jewelry, to the beautiful head piece, this copper statue was a sight to behold!

3. Elegant White Tara Statue

This time, Termatree has attentively crafted a replica statue of the 17th-century White Tara by Zanabazar. Both seated White Taras are portrayed with a graceful, tranquil expression, reflecting her calm and compassionate essence. Her right hand is raised in the gesture of supreme generosity (Varada Mudra), while her left hand cradles a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. 

Both the Zanabazar and the replica showcase the intricate details of the jewelry and crown, highlighting the divine qualities associated with Tara. The flowing hair locks on the shoulder and stylized lotus pedestal further enhance the elegance of the figure, preserving the balance between the material and spiritual realms. The subtle differences between the original and the replica do not diminish the impeccable preservation of the iconographic elements, which remain true to the teachings of Zanabazar’s artistic style.

Get more insights into Termatree's Handmade 24k Gold Gilded White Tara Statue.

4. Chaturbuja Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara

Zanabazar’s Chaturbhuja Avalokiteshvara sits in meditation on a lotus pedestal, with two hands in Anjali Mudra and others holding a lotus and rosary. His serene expression, intricate jewelry, and flowing drapery reflect divine grace and masterful craftsmanship. 

Termatree has carefully preserved these elements in the modern copper replica. The four-armed bodhisattva statue maintains the harmonious proportions, detailed ornamentation, and gilded finish of the original. The use of turquoise inlays and fine detailing ensures the timeless beauty of Chenrezig remains true to Zanabazar’s artistic vision.

Click Here To View Our Chenrezig Statue 24K Gold Gilded| Avalokiteshvara The Compassionate Bodhisattva

5. Amitabha Buddha (Sambhogakaya) Statue

Zanabazar’s Amitabha Buddha in Sambhogakaya form was crafted from metal and adorned with mercury gilding. The Buddha is depicted in deep meditation, with his hands positioned in Dhyana Mudra, which symbolizes spiritual awakening. His calm expression, intricately sculpted robes, and understated jewelry convey a sense of refined, minimalist elegance. His hair is styled in tight curls, topped with a simple ushnisha, highlighting his enlightenment.

Termatree’s modern replica builds on these traditional features by adding more ornamentation. This statue, crafted from copper and enhanced with 24k gold and acrylic painting, includes a large halo (prabhāvalī) that signifies divine radiance. In contrast to the original, this Amitabha holds a vessel filled with the nectar of immortality, symbolizing longevity and spiritual nourishment. The jewelry is more intricate, featuring detailed armlets, necklaces, and gemstone inlays that enhance its celestial look. The hair is more stylized, with an ornate ushnisha adorned with a prominent jewel, further emphasizing Amitabha’s enlightened essence.

Click Here To View Our Buddha Amitabha Artwork | 24K Gold Gilded Statue of Infinite Light

Zanabazar’s Influence on Global Art Instituitions

Zanabazar's artistic legacy extends far beyond Mongolia, with his masterpieces enriching collections in esteemed museums across Asia, Europe, and the United States. His sculptures, celebrated for their profound spiritual significance and exceptional craftsmanship, continue to captivate scholars and art enthusiasts worldwide.

1. The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Established in 1966, The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum is dedicated to showcasing Zanabazar's oeuvre. Highlights include the Five Dhyani Buddhas, cast in 1683, and Tara in her 21 manifestations. The museum's collection spans from the Lower Paleolithic to the early 20th century, offering a comprehensive view of Mongolia's artistic heritage. ​

2. The National Museum of Mongolia

The National Museum of Mongolia features works by Zanabazar, showcasing some of his most important pieces, including sculptures and religious artworks. Among the notable items in the collection are the Sita Tara statues and the Five Dhyani Buddha statues, as well as the Bodhi Stupa. These displays highlight Zanabazar’s significant influence on Mongolian art and Buddhism, providing insight into his artistic talent and spiritual impact.

3. The Rubin Museum of Art (New York)

Maitreya, the future Buddha, is depicted as a youthful bodhisattva holding a ritual ewer and making Vitarka Mudra. (Photo by Rubin Museum)

The Rubin Museum of Art in New York has showcased Zanabazar’s contributions to Buddhist sculpture, including pieces such as the Maitreya, the future Buddha. These works are typically featured in exhibitions that explore the spiritual and artistic traditions of the Himalayan region, where Zanabazar's influence is significant. His art is displayed alongside other important pieces from the region, emphasizing his unique style and cultural impact.

4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA

Zanabazar's two sculptures titled "Seated Amitayus" and "Vajrabhairava with His Consort Vajravetali" are displayed at The MET. These gilt bronze pieces exemplify his influence and are featured in exhibitions exploring Tibetan Buddhist art.​

5. ​The Asian Art Museum, San Francisco, USA

The Asian Art Museum features pieces influenced by Zanabazar, offering insights into his role in the development of Buddhist art. While not always featuring his works exclusively, the museum has displayed pieces that trace the lineage and artistic style of Zanabazar, contributing to the broader understanding of his legacy in the context of Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhist art.​​

Zanabazar's creations act as lasting links between Mongolia's vibrant cultural heritage and the international art scene, enhancing museum collections around the globe. His sculptures, celebrated for their spiritual significance and artistic excellence, consistently inspire and engage viewers, crossing both geographical and cultural divides. Through these remarkable works, Zanabazar’s artistic legacy not only safeguards the core of Mongolian Buddhism but also encourages a greater understanding of the connections among global artistic traditions.