Originating from the lotus, which symbolizes supreme enlightenment in Buddhism, Guru Padmasambhava embodies the pinnacle of wisdom. In this gilded copper Padmasambhava statue from Nepal, Guru Padmasambhava is attired vibrantly, with blooming lotuses patterned on it. The multiplicity of colors used on this icon symbolizes the various elements of the universe, which unify to provide the master with befitting garbs. With the pot of ambrosia, Vajra, and staff with three heads presenting youth, old age, and death, Padmasambhava in this statue underlines the impermanence of life while holding the nectar of knowledge in his hands.
The Embodiment of the Second Buddha
This magnificent 22-inch idol depicts Guru Padmasambhava, a figure revered throughout Tibetan Buddhism as the "Lotus-Born" master. He is credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet in the 8th century, overcoming local deities and demonic forces that resisted the new faith. His arrival marked a profound spiritual awakening for the region, and his teachings continue to be a cornerstone of Buddhist practice.
A Masterpiece of Nepalese Craftsmanship
Crafted from copper and richly embellished with gold plating, this statue is a testament to the exceptional skill of Nepalese artisans. The intricate details of Padmasambhava's attire, from the ornate patterns on his robes to the jewels adorning his crown, are rendered with meticulous precision. His serene yet powerful expression, characteristic of depictions of this revered lama, invites contemplation and devotion. The vibrant colors used in the painting further enhance the statue's spiritual aura, bringing the divine figure to life.Symbolism and Attributes
Guru Padmasambhava is depicted seated in a relaxed yet regal posture upon a multi-layered lotus pedestal. The lotus, a universal symbol of purity and enlightenment, signifies his immaculate birth and his ability to remain untainted by the mundane world. In his left hand, he holds a skull-cup filled with nectar, representing the essence of wisdom and the transmutation of negative energies. In his right hand, he grasps a vajra, the thunderbolt of enlightenment, symbolizing his unwavering spiritual power and the ability to cut through ignorance. He also holds a trident, a symbol of his mastery over the three realms of existence. The elaborate headdress and regal ornamentation signify his status as a kingly protector of the Dharma.
A Beacon of Spiritual Power
The presence of this statue is believed to bring blessings of wisdom, compassion, and protection to its surroundings. Guru Padmasambhava is especially invoked to overcome obstacles, dispel negative influences, and foster spiritual growth. The legend tells of his miraculous birth from a lotus flower in the divine lake of Dhanakosha in present-day Pakistan, a testament to his extraordinary nature. His teachings, often delivered in a mystical and direct manner, are said to have transformed the very fabric of Tibetan society, laying the foundation for centuries of spiritual development. Owning this exquisite representation is like bringing a fragment of that profound spiritual legacy into your home or sacred space.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.
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