Padmasambhava, known as "The Lotus-Born," was not only a historical teacher but also a renowned scholar, meditator, and magician, reflecting his multifaceted nature, as suggested by his mantra.

He is seen holding the khatvanga, a staff adorned with three severed heads representing the three kayas (the three bodies of a Buddha: dharmakaya, sambhogakaya, and nirmanakaya). He wears a simple sash robe. His eyes are wide open, reflecting a penetrating gaze. In his right hand, he holds a five-pronged vajra at his heart, while his left hand, in a gesture of equanimity, cradles a skull cup containing the nectar of deathless wisdom within a vase of longevity. Padmasambhava sits in the royal posture, with his feet crossed.