Tibetan sculpture: Cast for eternity

Religion has a profound influence on art in Tibet. One of the traditional art forms is metal sculpture. The masters are striving to keep the legacy alive.

The sculptors believe each stroke on the metal is cast for eternity. They produce works as gigantic as this, or as delicate as this.

Wangdui started learning the art as a teenager. His master was also his grandfather. Wangdui has worked on many major restoration projects, including the Potala Palace.

Tibetan metal sculptor Wangdui said, "I'm hoping to have more students so the art can be passed on to a broader group. Many people are not willing to learn the craft's skills nowadays. Most of the apprentices here are from poor families. However, I think the tradition can survive because it's given special attention."

This niche for a Buddha statue is the masterwork by Wangdui's grandfather, the renowned artist Cering Puncog. It represents the full range of casting skills.