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12" Aparmita Buddha Copper Statue | Amitayus Copper Idols from Nepal

$623.25
$831
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Aparmita, known as Amitayus in Tibet, is linked to the longevity aspect of Amitabha Buddha. The term "Amitayus" translates to "infinite life" in Sanskrit, encapsulating his essence. An Aparmita statue embodies Amitabha's longevity attribute, manifesting as the Sambhogakaya form.

 

The Aparmita statue presents him in a padmasana (full lotus pose). In his lap rests the vessel of "amrita," symbolizing immortality. Within Tibetan Buddhism, longevity is profound, and Aparmita holds a central role in long-life rituals. Gracing his hands is a vase, either filled with a healing elixir or a kalasha. Aparmita is invoked during rituals dedicated to extending one's lifespan.

Specifications
CAA122
Copper With Gold
Height: 12 inch
Width: 9 inch
Depth: 4.5 inch
Weight 2.50 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 6 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.

The Embodiment of Infinite Life

This magnificent copper statue, brought to life through the artistry of Nepalese craftspeople, depicts Aparmita Buddha, also known as Amitayus, the Buddha of Infinite Life and Longevity. Exquisitely cast in copper and adorned with gilded gold, this eighteen-inch masterpiece is a testament to the enduring spiritual traditions of the Himalayas. The statue portrays Amitayus seated in a meditative posture, a symbol of profound peace and unwavering wisdom. His serene countenance radiates compassion, inviting contemplation and a sense of tranquil well-being to any space.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Amitayus is a celestial Buddha revered for his power to bestow longevity, merit, and wisdom, and to protect practitioners from untimely death and suffering. In Buddhist cosmology, he resides in the Western Pure Land of Sukhavati, a paradise of bliss. His iconography is rich with meaning. The single unbroken stream of light emanating from his heart symbolizes the unfathomable depth of his compassion and the boundless nature of enlightenment. The vase held within his clasped hands, often containing the nectar of immortality, represents the empowerment he offers to overcome the cycle of birth and death, and to cultivate spiritual longevity. The elaborate crown and jewelry signify his status as a fully enlightened being, adorned with the ten powers and the eighteen unique qualities of Buddhahood. The tranquil smile and half-closed eyes suggest a profound inward gaze, a deep understanding of the nature of reality.

Artistry and Craftsmanship

Crafted with meticulous detail, this statue showcases the pinnacle of traditional Nepalese metalwork. The rich, lustrous gleam of the gilded copper evokes a sense of divine radiance, while the subtle color accents, perhaps hints of turquoise and ruby, add vibrancy and depth. The intricate patterns adorning his robes, the delicate rendering of his facial features, and the majestic headdress all speak to the skill and devotion of the artisans who brought this sacred form into existence. The statue rests upon a double-lotus pedestal, a classic symbol of purity and spiritual awakening, further enhancing its sacred aura. This piece is more than an object of art; it is a conduit for spiritual aspiration, a focal point for prayer and meditation, and a powerful reminder of the potential for eternal peace and wisdom. Its presence can transform an environment into a sanctuary of calm and spiritual reflection.

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.
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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.
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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.
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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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