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13" Tibetan Buddhist Deity Vajrasattva Copper Statue from Nepal

$454.50
$606
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Vajrasattva, often referred to as the "great purifier" in Tibetan Buddhism, holds a prominent role in purification practices for practitioners of all levels. This deity is considered the primary figure for purification, and his function is crucial for removing obstacles and negative karma that obscure one's Buddha Nature.

 

The practice of Vajrasattva is highly regarded as a potent method for cleansing the mind in Vajrayana Buddhism. In the left and right hand of Vajrasattva, you can see a golden bell and vajra. He looks lavish with ornaments adorning him from head to toe. He is seen seated on a moon disc and then on a golden and silver-bloomed lotus. 

Specifications
MIS728
COPPER WITH GOLD PLATED
Height: 13 inch
Width: 10 inch
Depth: 5 inch
Weight 2.70 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 Diamond Being of Purity

Behold this exquisite statue of Vajrasattva, a central figure in Vajrayana Buddhism, embodying the purified state of all Buddhas. Crafted from copper and adorned with a lustrous gold plating, this thirteen-inch representation originates from the skilled artisans of Nepal, a land steeped in rich spiritual heritage. The intricate detailing and regal presence of this deity evoke a profound sense of peace and spiritual aspiration. Vajrasattva, often translated as "Diamond Being" or "Adamantine Being," is not merely a deity but a manifestation of the enlightened mind. He is revered as the embodiment of the primordial purity from which all phenomena arise and to which they ultimately return. In Tibetan Buddhist lore, Vajrasattva plays a crucial role in purification practices. It is believed that chanting his mantra, "Om Vajrasattva Hum," can cleanse negative karma, broken vows, and obscurations, thereby paving the path towards enlightenment. He is often depicted with a vajra (a ritual thunderbolt symbolizing indestructibility and wisdom) and a bell (representing wisdom and the emptiness of phenomena).

Symbolism and Divine Adornments

This remarkable statue captures Vajrasattva in a posture of serene meditation, seated upon a lotus pedestal. The lotus, a universal symbol of purity and spiritual awakening, signifies that even in the midst of the 'mud' of worldly existence, enlightenment can blossom. The deity is depicted with a crown and elaborate jewelry, signifying his divine status and the manifold qualities of an awakened being. His serene countenance, with half-closed eyes, conveys deep concentration and boundless compassion. The flowing robes, rendered in a rich, deep hue with ornate gold accents, add to the statue's majestic aura. The gold plating not only bestows a divine radiance but also symbolizes the preciousness of spiritual realization and the illumination of wisdom. The presence of Vajrasattva in one's home or meditation space serves as a constant reminder of the potential for purification and enlightenment that resides within all beings. His practice is considered foundational, offering a means to purify the mind and prepare it for deeper meditation and spiritual insight. This statue is a testament to the enduring artistry and spiritual devotion of Nepalese craftsmen, who infuse each creation with sacred intent and traditional craftsmanship. It is an artifact that transcends mere decoration, offering a tangible connection to the profound teachings of Tibetan Buddhism and an invitation to embark on a journey of inner purification and spiritual growth.

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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