Tsam-Tanzfigur

The Weltmuseum Wien has 12 wooden figures in the Hans Leder Collection, which depict figures from the sacred Tsam dance that originated in Tibet. The figures were commissioned by Leder and are probably not an autochthonous Mongolian artefact. The Tsam dance is a religious ceremony or sacred festival in which lamas or monks dress up in elaborate masks and costumes (at a certain time of year) and perform pantomime dances in front of the temples accompanied by music. They represent various Buddhist patron gods, animals, Garuda or heroes.

This figure represents an Indian azar wearing a turban and long silk cloak and can therefore be identified as a religious scholar. Normally the figure holds a red staff in his hand, but this is missing here. This figure is one of the comical, cheerful figures and the touch of an azar's staff brings good luck.