Trisong Detsen (740-798): the Tibetan King that firmly established Buddhism in Tibet, emanation of the bodhisattva Manjushri, having invited Padmasambhava from India, and built the first monastery - Samye Chokor Ling. The wisdom sword and book are supported atop two lotus blossoms.

At the bottom left is King Songtsen Gampo (618-650), emanation of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, with the crown of the headdress adorned with the red face of Buddha Amitabha. Held in the right hand is the stem of a pink lotus blossoming above the shoulder.

At the bottom right is King Ralpachen (815-836), emanation of the bodhisattva Vajrapani, holding the stem of a lotus supporting a gold vajra scepter.

These three are known as the three Dharma Kings and each holds, or has in front, a golden Dharma wheel symbolizing the teachings of Buddhism.

Jeff Watt 7-2001