A GILT-BRONZE FIGURE OF A SHAMARPA LAMA, TIBET, 17TH CENTURY | 十七世紀 藏傳鎏金銅喇嘛坐像

The Shamar or Red Hat lineage holders can be identified by their double-peaked red caps, from which they derive their namesake. These caps were originally made as a replica of the Black Hats traditionally worn by the Karmapa lineage holders.

Red polychrome is still visible on the current work, in the crevices of the cap, further confirming the identification. The front of the cap is ornamented with a triple-gem motif, with cloud motif scrolling along either side.

Portraits of the Shamarpas are very often portraits of the original figures. By comparing the unique physiognomy -- the high cheekbones, pointed chin and prominent ears -- with another gilt-bronze Shamarpa identified by inscription in the collection of the Rubin Museum of Art, it is possible that the current work represents the fifth Shamarpa Konchog Yanlag; see Himalayan Art Resources item no. 65561. 

Another 17th century gilt-bronze figure of a Shamarpa lama was sold in our New York rooms, 15th March 2017, lot 220.