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12" Kharchheri Copper Statue from Nepal

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Name: 12" Kharchheri Copper Statue from Nepal
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: CAA170
Price: 700.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$656.25

$875

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

Only 1 available

Kharchheri is another form of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. He is known as six-syllabled Lokeshvara and six syllables are included in a prayer formula “Om Mani Padme Hum” which means jail to the jewel in the lotus. The Kharcherri Statue infused with copper and gold is iconographically white, one-faced, and four-armed, having a rosary in the right hand and a full-blown lotus in the left hand. The other two principal hands are in a namaskar mudra (salutation pose) holding a jewel, symbolizing knowledge. It is believed that inviting the divine energy of the Tibetan Kharchheri God into your home can enchant prosperity, protection, and spiritual harmony in the household.

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Specifications

	CAA170
	Copper With Gold
	Height: 12.5 inch
	Width: 9.5 inch
	Depth: 5 inch
	Weight 3.10 kg

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 6 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

The Embodiment of Compassion and Wisdom

This exquisite statue, crafted from copper and gilded with gold, depicts a revered Bodhisattva, a being dedicated to enlightenment and the liberation of all sentient beings. The serene countenance, with eyes gazing softly forward and a gentle smile gracing the lips, radiates an aura of profound peace and boundless compassion. This representation is more than just an artistic rendering; it is a conduit to spiritual understanding and a reminder of the path towards awakening. The intricate details of the ornamentation speak to the rich cultural and religious heritage from which this piece originates. The elaborate crown, adorned with precious stones, symbolizes the Bodhisattva's supreme wisdom and dominion over the cycle of rebirth. Delicate necklaces and bracelets further enhance the divine aspect of the figure, while the flowing robes, meticulously rendered, suggest movement and grace. In Buddhist iconography, the posture of the hands is highly significant. The *Anjali Mudra*, the gesture of folded hands at the heart, signifies devotion and reverence, a humble offering of prayer and supplication. This pose, in conjunction with the serene expression, invites contemplation and introspection.

Symbolism and Mythology

Bodhisattvas are central figures in Mahayana Buddhism, often seen as saviors who have attained enlightenment but choose to remain in the cycle of existence to guide others. They are revered for their wisdom (*prajna*) and their immeasurable compassion (*karuna*). In various traditions, Bodhisattvas are associated with specific virtues and powers. The iconography of this particular Bodhisattva, with the lotus blossom held in one hand, signifies purity and spiritual unfolding, mirroring the concept of enlightenment blooming from the mud of worldly existence. The other hand, held in a gesture of bestowing blessings or protection, further emphasizes the Bodhisattva's role as a benevolent protector and guide. The very act of creating such a statue is considered a meritorious deed, intended to bring merit to the artisan, the patron, and all who behold it. The use of copper and gold imbues the statue with symbolic meaning; copper is associated with the earthly realm and durability, while gold represents purity, radiance, and divine essence, reflecting the Bodhisattva's transcended nature.

Artistic Mastery from Nepal

Originating from Nepal, a land steeped in spiritual traditions and renowned for its exquisite artistry, this statue is a testament to the skill and devotion of Nepalese artisans. The meticulous craftsmanship, evident in every curve and contour, reflects centuries of inherited techniques and profound understanding of Buddhist aesthetics. The application of gold gilding not only enhances the visual splendor but also signifies the sanctity and preciousness of the divine image. Such statues are often found in monasteries, temples, and private altars, serving as focal points for meditation, prayer, and devotional practices. Their presence is believed to inspire devotees, foster inner peace, and bring auspicious blessings to the surroundings. This piece transcends mere decoration, serving as a tangible link to the spiritual teachings and artistic legacy of the Himalayas.

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.