On a
Vishwapadmasana, the exalted double-layered lotus seat is the gilded copper
Nepalese Vajrasattva or Adi Buddha. The Buddhist deity is envisioned in this Nepalese statue in a heavenly form. The difference in the application of gold on copper
on his ornaments, face, and attire has created a stunning layering of shades of
golden, contrasted by silver on the aureole and his brocaded dhoti. Holding the
bell and Vajra- compassion and wisdom, Vajrasattva reminds us of the balance
required to attain enlightenment.
A Radiant Embodiment of Purity and Power
This magnificent statue captures the serene yet formidable presence of Vajrasattva, a central figure in Vajrayana Buddhism, revered as the deity of purification. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail from copper and adorned with a lustrous gold plating, the artwork radiates an aura of spiritual significance and artistic mastery. The figure is depicted in the traditional lotus posture, symbolizing spiritual awakening and tranquility. His gentle gaze, framed by an ornate headdress, conveys a profound sense of compassion and wisdom.Symbolism and Iconography
Vajrasattva, often referred to as the Vajra-Being, is a manifestation of ultimate purity, representing the diamond-like, indestructible nature of enlightenment. He is widely invoked to cleanse negative karma and mental obscurations. In his right hand, he holds the vajra, a thunderbolt-like scepter symbolizing the unshakeable essence of enlightenment and the power to cut through ignorance. In his left hand, resting on his lap, is the ghanta (bell), representing the wisdom that understands emptiness and the melodious voice of the dharma. The intricate details of his adornments, from the layered crown to the ornate garments, signify his enlightened status and the richness of the dharma. The elaborate halo behind him, a vibrant symphony of reds, silvers, and golds, symbolizes the radiant light of wisdom and the vastness of the enlightened mind.Artistic Heritage and Craftsmanship
Hailing from Nepal, a land steeped in a rich spiritual and artistic heritage, this statue is a testament to the enduring traditions of Buddhist iconography. Nepalese artisans are renowned for their skill in metalwork, particularly in creating detailed and expressive religious imagery. The use of copper as the base material provides a robust foundation, while the generous gold plating imbues the statue with a celestial glow. The vibrant polychrome detailing, particularly in the dynamic patterns of the prabhamandala (aura), further enhances the visual appeal and symbolic depth. This piece is not merely an object of devotion but a masterpiece of sacred art, designed to inspire contemplation and connect the viewer to the profound teachings of Vajrayana Buddhism. Its commanding size makes it a focal point for any meditation space or collection of sacred art, inviting a sense of peace and spiritual elevation.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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