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20" Copper Tibetan Buddhist Kubera Statue from Nepal | Nepalese Sculpture

$1851.75
$2469
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The fiery Kubera sits in a distinctive pose as riding access to the three realms of existence atop a Tibetan snow lion. Adorned in a resplendent golden dhoti that shimmers in the light, Kubera is bedecked with lavish gold jewels that embellish his form, harmonizing beautifully with his traditional Tibetan-style crown. With his characteristic plump figure and a commanding paunch, Kubera's realistic expression and fiery web exude authority. This sculpture captures Kubera's essence in its undistinguished Tibetan form, featuring two arms. The one hand cradles a mongoose, a representation of wealth and fortune, or Nakula.

Specifications
CAA058
Copper With Gold
Height: 20 inch
Width: 16 inch
Depth: 7.5 inch
Weight 17.10 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 Wealth and Auspiciousness

This magnificent sculpture captures the very essence of Jambhala, revered in Tibetan Buddhism as the deity of wealth and prosperity. Also known as Kubera, this powerful figure is an embodiment of material abundance and spiritual riches. Crafted with meticulous artistry from copper and adorned with intricate gold detailing, this statue hails from the hallowed grounds of Nepal, a land steeped in spiritual heritage and renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The vibrant hues and detailed embellishments speak volumes about the skill and devotion poured into its creation, making it a truly captivating masterpiece.

Iconography of Power and Abundance

The deity is depicted seated regally upon a fearsome, winged lion, a creature symbolizing strength and dominion. Kubera himself possesses a commanding presence, his form radiating a powerful aura. His countenance, though somewhat fierce with his wide eyes and bared teeth, is ultimately benevolent, reflecting his role as a benefactor. He is often depicted with a plump physique, symbolizing his abundance, and in this rendition, he holds a mongoose in his left hand, from whose mouth jewels spill forth, a potent symbol of endless wealth. The elaborate flaming aureole behind him signifies his spiritual power and the auspicious energy he emanates, dispelling negativity and inviting positive forces. The intricate jewelry and regal crown he wears further underscore his status as the king of the Yakshas and the celestial treasurer.

Cultural Significance and Devotion

In Buddhist traditions, Kubera is not merely a god of material wealth but also a guardian of treasures, both earthly and spiritual. He is invoked to bestow not only financial prosperity but also good fortune, wisdom, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Tales from ancient texts describe Kubera as a benevolent king who generously shares his vast riches with his devotees, guiding them towards a life of contentment and spiritual fulfillment. This statue serves as a tangible representation of these beliefs, offering a focal point for meditation, prayer, and the aspiration for a life blessed with abundance. Its presence is believed to bring auspicious energies into any space, fostering an atmosphere of prosperity and well-being. The very act of gazing upon such a beautifully rendered deity can inspire feelings of hope and inner peace.

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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