This gilded copper
statue of the Buddha from Nepal, draped in a magnificent robe is a potent tool
for Tathagata's disciples to imagine and realize his enlightenment. Buddha is
seated on a lotus seat that has blossomed, signifying an enlightened mind. He is
holding a monk's bowl in the Dhyana mudra and extends his hand in the
earth-touching gesture or Bhumisparsha mudra. With the use of gilding to
highlight the elements of the icon and the divine countenance of Buddha, while
leaving the earthy tone of copper bare in other areas, the statue of Buddha has
flawlessly realistic facial features that give the artwork an unfathomable
aura.
The Enlightened One: A Portal to Peace
Invite tranquility and profound wisdom into your home with this beautiful representation of Shakyamuni Buddha. Handcrafted in Nepal, this statue is more than a mere decorative object; it's a tangible link to centuries of spiritual practice and a reminder of the path to enlightenment. This statue captures the serene presence and compassionate nature of the historical Buddha. Its creation is a testament to the artistry of Nepalese artisans, whose skills have been passed down through generations. The copper form, meticulously detailed and gilded with gold, radiates a sense of sacredness and enduring value.
The Symbolism of Shakyamuni Buddha
Shakyamuni, meaning "Sage of the Shakya Clan," refers to Siddhartha Gautama, the prince who renounced his royal life to seek the end of suffering. His journey from prince to spiritual leader forms the foundation of Buddhism. His teachings, known as the Dharma, offer a path to liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
The figure in the statue embodies specific iconography loaded with meaning. The urna, a dot or jewel on the forehead, symbolizes the all-seeing third eye, representing wisdom and insight. The elongated earlobes are reminders of the heavy jewelry he wore as a prince, which he later discarded as he embraced asceticism. The tightly curled hair represents the rejection of worldly vanity and the embracing of spiritual discipline.
The Gesture of Bhumisparsha Mudra
Notice the hand gesture, known as the Bhumisparsha mudra, or "earth-touching" gesture. This poignant pose refers to the moment when Siddhartha, seated beneath the Bodhi tree, was challenged by Mara, the demon of illusion, who sought to prevent him from attaining enlightenment. As Mara unleashed his armies of temptations, Siddhartha called upon the Earth Goddess, Sthavara, to bear witness to his countless lifetimes of merit and virtue. In response, the Earth shook, and Mara and his forces vanished. The Bhumisparsha mudra symbolizes Siddhartha's unwavering resolve, his triumph over temptation, and his ultimate attainment of enlightenment.
Crafted with Devotion
Each aspect of this Nepalese Buddha statue reflects a deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy and a commitment to artistic excellence. The use of copper, a metal prized for its durability and conductivity, ensures the statue's lasting beauty. The gilding with gold symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and the preciousness of the Dharma. The lotus pedestal upon which the Buddha sits represents spiritual purity, arising unsullied from muddy waters, mirroring the journey from suffering to liberation.
This 18-inch-tall statue is an embodiment of peace, wisdom, and artistic heritage. It serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for enlightenment within us all.