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15" Tibetan Buddhist Deity Vajrasattva Copper Statue from Nepal

$1758
$2344
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Vajrasattva signifies the essence, symbolized by 'sattva,' of both the thunderbolt and the diamond, with 'vajra' encompassing both meanings. Such a name is fitting for the Bodhisattva, given the cosmic splendor associated with him.

 

Vajrasattva is seen sitting in a vajraparyaka pose, cross-legged atop a moon disc lotus seat. His right hand gently cradles a vajra close to his heart, while his left hand holds a bell positioned at his waist. The bell represents Wisdom, while the vajra embodies Reality and Compassion.

 

In his divine attire, Vajrasattva adorns himself with resplendent golden jewelry, from an intricately designed crown to bracelets and necklaces.   

Specifications
MIS757
COPPER WITH GOLD PLATED
Height: 15 inch
Width: 10 inch
Depth: 7 inch
Weight 4.70 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 6 days
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.

Embodiment of Purity and Enlightenment

This magnificent statue captures the serene and powerful presence of Vajrasattva, a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism, particularly revered in Tibetan traditions. Crafted from high-quality copper and adorned with a lustrous gold plating, the statue radiates a divine aura, symbolizing the purity and incorruptibility that Vajrasattva embodies. The intricate detailing speaks to the masterful artistry of Nepalese artisans, who have preserved ancient techniques through generations. Vajrasattva is considered the embodiment of the Vajra family of Buddhas and is central to tantric practices aimed at purifying negative karma and obscurations, paving the way for spiritual awakening. He is often invoked for his power to cleanse the mind and spirit, offering a path to ultimate enlightenment. ––––––––––

Iconographic Significance and Symbolism

The iconography of Vajrasattva is rich with meaning. He is depicted in a seated posture, typically on a lotus throne, signifying purity and spiritual elevation. His serene countenance, with downcast eyes, suggests deep meditation and inner peace. In one hand, he traditionally holds a vajra (a ritual scepter often interpreted as representing indestructible wisdom), and in the other, a bell (representing wisdom that understands emptiness). These symbols together represent the union of wisdom and compassion, the two essential wings for achieving Buddhahood. The elaborate crown and adornments, often encrusted with precious stones in exquisite craftsmanship, further signify his exalted status as a celestial being and a bodhisattva on the path to Buddhahood. The posture of the statue, with hands in a specific mudra, conveys profound teachings and blessings to the devotee. ––––––––––

A Testament to Nepalese Craftsmanship

Hailing from Nepal, a land steeped in Buddhist heritage, this statue is a testament to the enduring legacy of sacred art. The use of copper, a metal known for its spiritual conductivity in many traditions, combined with the shimmering gold plating, creates an object of immense aesthetic and spiritual value. The vibrant blue of the deity's face, a common representation, symbolizes the infinite, unchanging nature of the mind in its purest state. Every curve, every etched pattern, and the harmonious balance of the form are meticulously rendered to evoke a sense of divinity and inspire devotion. This statue is not merely an object of art but a sacred vessel, designed to aid in meditation, reflection, and the cultivation of inner peace and spiritual growth, connecting the viewer to the profound wisdom and compassionate energy of Vajrasattva.

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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