In
the realm of divine manifestations, the Chenrezig Seated Avalokiteshvara stands
as a significant embodiment of compassion and enlightenment. The piece is
constructed in copper and embellished with gold, this statue captures the
essence of divinity. Embedded with coral and turquoise crystals, it emanates a
celestial aura, drawing devotees into its serene presence. Chenrezig,
the epitome of compassion, holds a sacred throne, wearing a crown that
symbolizes spiritual authority. The gentle mudra of the statue signifies
blessings and protection. With its resplendent appearance, this statue becomes
a focal point for spiritual devotion, invoking the positive impact of Chenrezig
in the lives of those who revere him.
The Embodiment of Compassion: Chenrezig
This exquisite statue captures the serene presence of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion in Mahayana Buddhism. Known also as Avalokiteshvara, this divine being is revered as the embodiment of all the Buddhas' compassion. Legend tells that Chenrezig, upon witnessing the suffering of sentient beings, shed tears of empathy, which then transformed into the Tara, the female counterpart and emanation of compassion. The fourteen-inch stature, meticulously crafted from copper and gilded with pure gold, radiates an aura of divine grace and profound peace. Its intricate details speak of skilled artistry and devotion, making it a truly magnificent object of contemplation and veneration.
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Symbolism and Form
The statue depicts Chenrezig in a seated posture, adorned with a crown and various symbolic ornaments. Typically, Chenrezig is shown with multiple arms, each holding an object or performing a mudra that conveys spiritual meaning. The posture of hands in prayer, or *anjali mudra*, at the heart center signifies reverence and the unity of compassion. The other hands, if present, might hold a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment, or a wish-fulfilling jewel, representing the granting of all desires. The serene expression, with half-closed eyes, suggests deep meditation and boundless benevolence. The golden gilding enhances the divine radiance of the deity, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and the preciousness of spiritual attainment. The lotus base, on which the deity is seated, represents the unfolding of wisdom and the transcendence of worldly desires, just as a lotus rises unstained from muddy waters.
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A Sacred Treasure from Nepal
Hailing from Nepal, a land steeped in spiritual heritage and renowned for its master artisans, this statue is a testament to centuries of artistic tradition. The craftsmanship reflects the deep understanding and reverence with which such sacred figures are created in the Himalayan region. Each curve, each fold of cloth, and each delicate feature is rendered with meticulous care, imbuing the statue with a powerful spiritual presence. Owning such a piece is not merely acquiring a beautiful object, but inviting the boundless compassion of Chenrezig into one's life and surroundings. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of empathy, kindness, and the aspiration to alleviate the suffering of others. This statue is an ideal centerpiece for a home altar, meditation space, or as a significant gift for those who seek spiritual inspiration and a connection to the path of enlightenment.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.
