8" Colourful Vajrapani Copper Figurine from Nepal

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MADE IN INDIA.

8" Colourful Vajrapani Copper Figurine from Nepal

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$947.25

$1263

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Vajrapani is a prominent bodhisattva in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, known for his association with power and the vajra, a symbolic thunderbolt or diamond scepter. The name "Vajrapani" translates to "Thunderbolt Holder" or "Diamond Bearer."

Depicted as a powerful and wrathful figure, Vajrapani is often depicted holding a vajra in one hand, symbolizing indestructible spiritual power. His other hand may display a threatening gesture (tarjani mudra), representing the dispelling of fear and obstacles.

Vajrapani is considered one of the Eight Great Bodhisattvas and is particularly associated with the power of all Buddhas. He is known for his ability to protect and guide practitioners through the challenges of the spiritual path.

In Tibetan Buddhism, Vajrapani is one of the three principal deities of the Lotus Sutra, along with Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri. His fierce appearance signifies the energetic and transformative aspects of enlightened compassion.

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Specifications

	MIU156
	Copper Gilded with Gold
	Height: 8 inch
	Width: 6 inch
	Depth: 4 inch
	Weight 1.50 kg

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 6 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Embodying Fierce Compassion: The Vajrapani Bodhisattva

This magnificent 8-inch copper figurine from Nepal captures the awe-inspiring form of Vajrapani, a powerful Bodhisattva revered in Mahayana Buddhism. Vajrapani, often translated as "Vajra-wielder," is the embodiment of the power of all Buddhas and is invoked to overcome obstacles, dispel negativities, and protect practitioners on their spiritual path. His fierce aspect, a common motif in Tibetan art, signifies his unwavering resolve to vanquish ignorance, hatred, and greed. ––––––––––––––––––

A Symbol of Awakened Power

Crafted with meticulous detail and gilded with lustrous gold, this figurine showcases the vibrant artistry for which Nepalese artisans are renowned. Vajrapani's formidable posture, with his muscular physique and determined expression, radiates an energy that is both intimidating and profoundly protective. His dark blue complexion is often associated with the immensity of space and the ultimate reality, while the golden accents highlight his divine nature and enlightened wisdom. The fiery aureole that surrounds him symbolizes the transformative power of spiritual practice, burning away impurities and illuminating the path to liberation. In one hand, he often holds a vajra, the thunderbolt scepter, representing indestructibility and the unshakeable nature of enlightenment. ––––––––––––––––––

From Ancient Lore to Your Sacred Space

The figure of Vajrapani is deeply rooted in Buddhist mythology. He is considered one of the three great Bodhisattvas, alongside Manjushri (wisdom) and Avalokiteshvara (compassion). In certain traditions, Vajrapani is seen as the successor to Shakyamuni Buddha, continuing his work of safeguarding the Dharma. Tales abound of his intervention in protecting the Buddha from demonic forces and his role in subduing harmful energies. By bringing this statue into your home or meditation space, you invite this potent energy of protection and empowerment. Its presence can serve as a constant reminder of the strength that lies within, the courage to face challenges, and the ultimate triumph of wisdom and compassion. ––––––––––––––––––

A Masterpiece of Devotion

This figurine is more than just an artistic representation; it is a conduit for devotion and a focal point for spiritual practice. The intricate details, from the serene yet powerful facial expression to the dynamic posture and the flowing garments, speak of the dedication and spiritual insight of the craftspeople who created it. The use of copper, a sacred metal in many cultures, further enhances its spiritual significance. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or simply seeking a piece of art that embodies profound meaning and cultural heritage, this Vajrapani figurine offers a unique opportunity to connect with an ancient tradition of awakened power and unwavering protection.

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.