The Buddha, variously termed Shakyamuni or Thathagat founded Buddhism in the 6th century B.C. He was born as Siddhartha to Shuddhodana, the ruler of the Shakyan republic, and his wife Maya, in the Lumbini gardens, near Kapilavastu.
It was prophesized at his birth that he would leave the material world and become an ascetic. King Shuddhodana made all efforts to keep him immersed in luxury. But Siddhartha's inherent goodness and kind nature could not be affected anyways. This wood artifact narrates a tale from the early years of his life. Siddhartha was once playing with his cousin who shot down a swan. With the arrow pierced in its body, it fluttered down. Siddhartha ran towards it, pulled the arrow of its body and tended to its wounds. Here a small arrow is visible close to Siddhartha feet and he is caressing the injured bird. To understand and appreciate this wonderful piece, it is imperative to know what followed. His cousin claimed the bird as he had shot it down and Siddhartha claimed it for he had saved it. The decision was left to the bird which staggered towards Siddhartha, proving that the one who saves is greater than the one who hurts.
The way, the gentle expression of his face has been captured in wood is commendable. The hands are long and thin with tapering fingers. He is dressed as a prince with ornamentsadorning his ears, neck and hands. His curly hair is knotted at the top. The bird is an unattached piece with the fluttering movement of the wings freezed. Its beak remains open as if shrieking with pain. The webbed feet, the feathered wings and the delicate neck of the swan has been intricately worked upon. A wonder piece that manages to bring out kindness and all that is good in a human being just by being there.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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