Tibetan Buddhist Deity Manjushri - Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom

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Name: Tibetan Buddhist Deity Manjushri - Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: RY67
Price: 330.00 USD
Availability: InStock

SG$493

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Specifications

	RY67
	Copper Sculpture Gilded with 24 Karat Gold
	Height: 8.8 inch
	Width: 6.5 inch
	Depth: 3.7 inch
	Weight 1.28 kg

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100% Handmade

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MADE IN INDIA.

Embodiment of Transcendent Wisdom

This exquisite copper sculpture depicts Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom in Tibetan Buddhism. He is a celestial being whose presence symbolizes the enlightenment that comes from profound understanding and insight. In this arresting representation, Manjushri is seated in a graceful posture, embodying serenity and profound contemplation. The artistry and dedication poured into this statue are evident in every detail, making it a powerful focal point for any spiritual or decorative space. The sculpture is meticulously gilded with 24 karat gold, lending it a radiant and auspicious glow. This precious metal coating not only enhances the visual splendor of the statue but also signifies the divine and precious nature of the wisdom Manjushri embodies. The interplay of the warm copper base and the gleaming gold creates a striking contrast, imbuing the piece with a sense of timeless elegance and sacredness.

The Symbols of Enlightenment

Manjushri is famously depicted wielding a flaming sword in his right hand, poised to strike down ignorance and delusion. This iconic weapon represents the sharp intellect and clarity of thought that can cut through confusion, doubt, and the veils of illusion. With this sword, he severs the roots of suffering and misinformation, illuminating the path to true understanding. In his left hand, Manjushri often holds a lotus flower, a symbol of purity and spiritual awakening. The lotus, which rises unstained from muddy waters, represents the ability to maintain purity and clarity of mind even amidst the challenges and defilements of the world. The presence of the lotus in this sculpture signifies the blossoming of wisdom and the attainment of enlightenment, untainted by worldly imperfections.

Cultural Significance and Devotion

Manjushri holds a central place in Mahayana Buddhist traditions, revered as the patron of scholars, poets, and all who seek knowledge and wisdom. He is often invoked to enhance learning, sharpen memory, and overcome intellectual obstacles. It is believed that by meditating on Manjushri, practitioners can develop their own innate wisdom and compassion. Stories abound in Buddhist lore of Manjushri's profound wisdom and his role in guiding beings towards the Dharma. He is considered an embodiment of the teachings of the Buddha, and his presence is seen as a source of inspiration and spiritual guidance. This statue serves as a tangible representation of these profound spiritual qualities, offering devotees a visual anchor for their prayers and meditations. Its intricate craftsmanship speaks to the deep devotion and artistic skill cultivated in Himalayan Buddhist art traditions, passed down through generations. This statue is not merely an object of beauty but a sacred icon, intended to inspire contemplation, cultivate wisdom, and foster a deeper connection with the spiritual path. Its presence can serve as a constant reminder of the pursuit of knowledge, the overcoming of ignorance, and the ultimate goal of enlightenment.

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.