The Potala’s most sacred statue is the small, ancient and jewel-encrusted gilded sandalwood image of Arya Lokeshvara, the personal tutelary deity (yidam) of Songtsen Gampo. Flanking it are Tara and Avalokiteshvara, both made of white sandalwood. This is one of the few corners of the Potala that dates from the time of Songtsen Gampo’s 7th century palace. Since photography isn't allowed in the Potala Palace, I highly recommend the book Splendor of Tibet: The Potala Palace, Jewel of the Himalayas by Phuntsok Namgyalis, from which this photo was taken.