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Return within 7 days of
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Fully Insured
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to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Tibetan Buddhist Deity Throne

$825
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
ZCE49
Wood
Height: 22.5 inch
Width: 16.3 inch
Depth: 10.2 inch
Weight 2.38 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 35 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.

A Seat of Sacredness and Celestial Guardians

This exquisite wooden creation serves as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of Tibetan Buddhism, offering a sacred space for divine presence. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this altar is more than just an object; it is a vessel designed to invite serenity, contemplation, and a connection to the spiritual realm. The vibrant colors and intricate carvings speak to a tradition steeped in symbolism and devotional practice.

The Face of Protection and Auspiciousness

Dominating the upper arch is a fearsome yet benevolent visage, reminiscent of the fierce guardian lions, or "Snow Lions," that symbolize power, strength, and purity in Tibetan mythology. These mythical beasts are often depicted guarding sacred sites and monasteries, their roar said to dispel evil. Here, the creature's open mouth and sharp teeth are softened by the surrounding ornate scrollwork, suggesting a protective energy that shields the sacred space from negativity. Its golden hues represent prosperity and spiritual illumination, guiding devotees towards enlightenment. The fiery mane, depicted in vibrant reds and oranges, further emphasizes its potent protective nature.

Celestial Attendants and the Sacred Syllable

Flanking the central panel are two graceful figures, archetypal celestial attendants or semi-divine beings, perhaps apsaras or yakshinis, gracefully supporting the structure. Their pose, reaching upwards, suggests an offering or a bearing of burdens, symbolizing the ceaseless effort of divine beings to uphold cosmic order and assist humanity. These figures are often associated with beauty, prosperity, and fertility in various Asian mythologies. Their placement above lotus blossoms, a universal symbol of purity, spiritual awakening, and enlightenment, reinforces the sacred nature of the deity's seat. At the heart of this divine tableau is the sacred Tibetan syllable "Om" (represented as 'Aum' in Sanskrit and often transcribed as 'Om Mani Padme Hum' in its full mantra). This primordial sound is considered the genesis of all existence, the essence of the universe, and the embodiment of pure consciousness. Its prominent display signifies the presence of universal wisdom and compassion.

Foundational Strength and Auspicious Motifs

The base of this sacred altar is equally adorned with symbolic elements that contribute to its spiritual resonance. Small, intricately carved figures, possibly representations of smaller guardian spirits or auspicious animals like the makara (a mythical sea creature), are nestled within. The vibrant red of the platform symbolizes vitality and auspiciousness, while the delicate golden patterns evoke the radiance of divine energy. The overall design, from the imposing guardian at the apex to the foundational motifs, is intended to create a harmonious and potent sanctuary, inviting the blessings and presence of deities and enlightened beings. This piece is a profound expression of devotion, a physical manifestation of spiritual aspiration, and a beautiful addition to any space dedicated to peace and contemplation.

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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. 

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