Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Lions Capital of Ashoka (Ashokstambha)

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

Name: Lions Capital of Ashoka (Ashokstambha)
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: ZAQ86
Price: 90.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$78

$104

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

Notify me when this item is available

Specifications

	ZAQ86
	Wood
	Height: 12 inch
	Width: 3 inch
	Depth: 3 inch
	Weight 300 gm

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 35 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Symbol of Dharma and Sovereignty

This exquisite wooden carving is a rendition of the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka, a monumental symbol of ancient Indian heritage and the foundational pillar of India's national emblem. More than just an artifact, it embodies profound philosophical and historical significance, connecting us to an era of enlightenment and imperial majesty. The original Lion Capital, erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE at Sarnath, is a testament to his transformation after the Kalinga War. Moved by the bloodshed, he embraced Buddhism and propagated Dharma, the principles of righteousness, ethical conduct, and social justice, across his vast empire. This carving captures the essence of that transformative period.

The Majestic Lions: Guardians of Truth

The most striking feature of this replica is the intricately carved depiction of four Asiatic lions, seated back to back. These lions are not mere animals; they represent power, courage, royalty, and the indomitable spirit that defines strength. In Hindu mythology, the lion, particularly the Simha, is often associated with deities like Durga and Vishnu, symbolizing their protective and formidable nature. The watchful gaze of each lion, facing the four cardinal directions, signifies the all-encompassing presence and authority of Ashoka's reign, and by extension, the vigilance and protection that Dharma offers to all beings. The open mouths, often interpreted as roaring, can be seen as proclamations of the Buddha's teachings, spreading the message of peace and righteousness far and wide.

The Wheel of Law: The Dharma Chakra

Beneath the majestic lions, a circular abacus graces the structure. This abacus is adorned with a band of carved reliefs. Most notably, it features the Dharma Chakra, the Wheel of Law. This wheel is a potent Buddhist symbol representing the teachings of the Buddha, the path to enlightenment, and the cosmic order. It is also present in the national flag of India, further cementing its importance as a symbol of the nation. The presence of animals like elephants, horses, and bulls around the Chakra in the original structure, representing different aspects of Buddha's life and teachings, are subtly hinted at in this carving, adding layers of meaning to its visual narrative.

A Testament to Craftsmanship and Heritage

Crafted from high-quality wood, this carving is a beautiful representation of traditional artisanal skill. The natural grain and warm tones of the wood lend a sense of earthy elegance and timeless appeal to the piece. The detailed work, from the expressive faces of the lions to the delicate carvings on the abacus, speaks volumes about the dedication and artistry of the craftsman. This piece serves as a tangible link to India's rich cultural and spiritual past, offering a unique opportunity to bring a piece of that historical grandeur into your home or workspace. It is an ideal addition for those who appreciate history, spirituality, and fine craftsmanship.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.

2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.

3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.

4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.

How to care for Wood Statues?

Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.

Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.

Products related to this item