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MADE IN INDIA.

11" Incense Box from Nepal - Crafted from Copper

$466
Includes any tariffs and taxes

Crafted from copper, this incense burner transcends its functional role, serving as a captivating link between the terrestrial and the celestial realms. Enveloped in the warmth of gold-plated accents, this copper incense box transcends the ordinary, morphing into a vessel of both aesthetic allure and profound meaning. Intricately adorned with a scene of camels positioned alongside the incense tip-opener, while each corner finds solace in the embrace of avian motifs.

 

As the fragrant essences of aromatic herbs and spices gently mingle and waft forth, a transformative aura envelops the surroundings, creating a haven for the senses. Within this sensorial sanctuary, the delicate dance of devotion harmonizes with the aromatic notes, facilitating a connection between mortal existence and the divine realms. Each whiff becomes a channel for unspoken prayers and whispered reverence, all orchestrated by this incense box's artful design. A conduit of elevation, it orchestrates a symphony of the senses that elevates offerings to a sublime crescendo.

Specifications
MIS472
Copper with Gold Plated
Height: 7 inch
Width: 11 inch
Depth: 4.5 inch
Weight 1 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Vessel of Sacred Aromas and Divine Blessings

Step into the realm of ancient spirituality and exquisite craftsmanship with this remarkable incense box, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. For centuries, the burning of incense has been an integral part of spiritual practices across the globe, serving as a conduit for prayer, meditation, and purification. This ornate box, fashioned from copper and meticulously adorned with gold plating, is not merely a container for fragrant resins and woods; it is an artifact imbued with spiritual significance and artistic mastery.

Echoes of Tradition and Symbolism

The design of this incense box is deeply rooted in the traditions of Himalayan Buddhism. The lid is crowned with a Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra), a potent symbol representing the Buddha's teachings and the path to enlightenment. The presence of two deer flanking the wheel alludes to the Deer Park Sermon, the Buddha's first discourse after achieving enlightenment, where he expounded the Four Noble Truths. These elements are not decorative whims; they are sacred icons that evoke profound spiritual concepts, inviting contemplation and reverence. The intricate openwork on the lid allows the fragrant smoke to rise, carrying prayers and intentions to the heavens, much like the offerings made in ancient temples and monasteries.

Artistry in Metal: A Masterpiece of Nepali Craftsmanship

Each detail of this incense box speaks of the artisan's skill and dedication. The base is adorned with a band of intricate geometric patterns, possibly echoing the labyrinthine paths of spiritual journeys or protective talismans. Below this, a series of stylized faces, reminiscent of benevolent deities or protective guardians, emerge from the metal, adding an aura of sacred protection and mystical presence. The sides of the box are further enhanced with delicate scrollwork and motifs that reflect the region's artistic heritage. The rich patina, combined with the gleam of the gold plating, creates a visually stunning piece that would be a captivating centerpiece in any sacred space or a treasured addition to an art collection.

A Gateway to Serenity and Spiritual Practice

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this incense box serves a vital ritualistic purpose. It is designed to hold and gracefully release the aromatic smoke of incense, creating an atmosphere conducive to prayer, meditation, or simply quiet reflection. The act of burning incense has been associated with cleansing the environment, dispelling negative energies, and inviting positive spiritual vibrations. Imagine the calming scent of sandalwood or the purifying aroma of frankincense gently wafting from this exquisite vessel, transforming your space into a sanctuary of peace and mindfulness. This incense box is more than an object; it is an invitation to connect with ancient traditions, embrace tranquility, and elevate your spiritual practice.

How are Nepalese copper statues made?

Nepalese statues and sculptures are best known for their unique small religious figures and ritual paraphernalia for over two thousand years. These are mainly cast in copper alloy. Nepal draws influences from the artistic styles of Buddhism and Hinduism, and therefore the sculptors of the country specialize in making the icons of both these religions. Over the years, Nepalese sculptures evolved into their own distinctive iconography. Some characteristic features of these sculptures that differ from other pieces are exaggerated physical postures, youthful and sensual features, languid eyes, wider faces having serene expressions, and ornate flourishes. The Buddhist deity icons of Nepal have tremendous demand in countries such as China and Tibet for ritual purposes in their temples and monasteries.

Nepalese statues and sculptures have a high copper content and therefore develop a slightly reddish patina on the surface as they age. However, the most unique feature of Nepalese copper statues is their decorative detailing. The pieces are heavily gilded and sometimes inlaid with semi-precious stones. This embellishment protects them from getting tarnished. The traditional lost-wax method for casting Nepalese copper statues remains the most practiced technique in Nepal for many centuries. This process involves many steps and requires skilled artists.

The first step in lost-wax sculpting is to make a wax replica of the desired Buddhist deity to be cast in copper. This replica is created by hand and therefore needs excellent artistic skills otherwise fine features will be lacking.

Once the wax replica is made, it is then coated with a special mixture of clay with a brush. This layer of clay is hardened when left to dry. A small hole is made on the base of the wax mould so that the wax flows away when it is heated.
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At this stage, a hollow mould in the shape of the deity is obtained.

This is the time to pour liquid copper into the hollow mould which is then allowed to cool and harden inside a container of cold water. When the liquid metal has hardened, the mould is removed and the statue within is revealed.
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The artist works on the details of the statue using various tools. It is then polished to get a shiny and lustrous surface.

Now comes the most important part of Nepalese art which is gold gilding. This is done by the traditional fire gilding method. A mixture of mercury and 18K gold is applied on the surface of the statue and heat is applied using a flame torch. The result is that mercury evaporates along with impurities, leaving a pure 24K gold finish.
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The lost-wax method of sculpting is the most preferred technique

for artists to cast a metallic statue having intricate details. Since Nepalese copper sculptures require extraneous effort for giving a majestic look by adding special embellishments, it takes several weeks to complete one masterpiece. A 24K gold gilded copper sculpture retains its brilliant luster for many years and appears as like before. Nepalese sculptures continue to remain one of the finest specimens of the art of the East that have a strong aesthetic appeal that other sculptures cannot match.
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