12" Copper Nine-Prongeded Vajra (Dorge) from Nepal

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Name: 12" Copper Nine-Prongeded Vajra (Dorge) from Nepal
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: MIT268
Price: 705.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$811

Includes any tariffs and taxes

The Nine-Pronged Vajra, sometimes referred to as Dorje Nubchu, is a Tibetan Buddhist ritual object. It has nine prongs that mimic lotus petals on a central shaft. The nine prongs have symbolic connotations that relate to various aspects of Buddhist cosmology and philosophy. The nine prongs may explicitly stand for the nine yanas, or vehicles, of Tibetan Buddhism that guide practitioners through various phases of spiritual growth. In rituals, the Nine-Pronged Vajra is employed to call forth spiritual energies linked to these profound teachings and to promote a more profound comprehension of the path to enlightenment.

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Specifications

	MIT268
	Copper
	Height: 12 inch
	Width: 4 inch
	Depth: 4 inch
	Weight 2.60 kg

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100% Handmade

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MADE IN INDIA.

The Symbol of Indestructible Power

This exquisite copper vajra, a sacred ritual implement originating from Nepal, is more than just a beautiful object; it is a potent symbol deeply rooted in Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Known as a *dorje* in Tibetan and *vajra* in Sanskrit, it represents the thunderbolt, the weapon of Indra, the king of the gods, signifying his power and his ability to destroy ignorance and illusion. The word "vajra" itself also means "diamond," further conveying an essence of unshakeability and ultimate truth.

Craftsmanship and Symbolism

This particular vajra features nine prongs, a configuration that carries significant meaning. The number nine is considered auspicious in many cultures, often representing completion or totality. In Buddhism, the nine prongs can symbolize various aspects, such as the nine stages of enlightenment or the nine classes of beings. Each prong is meticulously crafted and culminates in a sharp point, representing the piercing insight that cuts through delusion. The central part of the vajra, often adorned with intricate patterns, echoes the knot of eternity, a symbol of the endless cycle of birth and rebirth, and the interconnectedness of all things. The entire piece, forged from durable copper, possesses a weight and presence that hints at its profound spiritual significance. Its dimensions make it suitable for ritual use or as a striking centerpiece for a personal altar or meditation space.

A Tool for Spiritual Practice

The vajra is an indispensable tool in Tibetan Buddhist rituals, often held in the right hand. It is typically paired with a bell (*ghanta*), held in the left hand, which symbolizes wisdom (*prajna*) and compassion (*karuna*), respectively. The harmonious union of these two instruments during meditation and chanting is believed to purify the mind, overcome obstacles, and awaken spiritual potential. Holding the vajra can serve as a tangible reminder of one's commitment to the path of enlightenment, its solidity mirroring the unwavering nature of true spiritual realization. This nine-pronged copper vajra from Nepal, with its rich symbolism and fine craftsmanship, offers a direct connection to these ancient practices and the enduring quest for spiritual clarity and liberation.

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.

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.

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.

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.