Bell Dorje

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$394

Includes any tariffs and taxes

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Specifications

	XA96
	Bronze and Copper
	7.2 inch X 3.6 inch X 3.6 inch - Bell1.5 inch X 4.6 inch X 1.5 inch - Dorje
	Weight 650 gm

Delivery and Return Policies


	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
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Fully Insured

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100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

Symbolism and Craftsmanship

More than mere objects, the bell and dorje are potent symbols within Tibetan Buddhism, embodying the feminine principle of wisdom (the bell) and the masculine aspect of skillful means or compassion (the dorje). Together, they represent the union of wisdom and compassion, the essential elements for achieving enlightenment. Crafted meticulously from bronze and copper, this set emanates a timeless quality. Notice the intricate detailing etched into the metal, a testament to the artisan's skill and dedication. The bell stands at 7.2 inches tall, with a diameter of 3.6 inches, while the dorje measures 4.6 inches in length.

The Sound of Emptiness

The bell, known as a "ghanta," is often held in the left hand during rituals and its clear, resonating sound is believed to invoke deities and dispel negative energies. The sound itself is considered to be a manifestation of emptiness, a concept central to Buddhist philosophy. The top of the bell is adorned with elaborate carvings, including a representation of a deity, which further enhances its sacred character. The bell's clapper strikes the inner surface, producing a sound that is said to purify the mind and create a space for contemplation. The act of ringing the bell symbolizes the opening of oneself to the wisdom of the teachings.

The Indestructible Diamond

The dorje, or "vajra" in Sanskrit, is a ritual object that represents the power of the diamond, which can cut through anything but cannot be cut itself. It symbolizes the indestructible nature of enlightenment and the ability to overcome obstacles on the path to awakening. The dorje is held in the right hand during ceremonies and is often used in conjunction with the bell. Its form, typically consisting of two lotus blossoms emanating from a central sphere, symbolizes the union of samsara (cyclic existence) and nirvana (liberation). When held, the dorje represents control, discipline and the power to manifest positive change. The prongs extending from the lotus blossoms represent different aspects of enlightened activity.

Ritual and Meditation

This bronze and copper set is not only a beautiful piece of art but also a powerful tool for spiritual practice. The harmonious resonance of the bell combined with the symbolic weight of the dorje creates a profound atmosphere for meditation and ritual. Whether used by seasoned practitioners or those new to the path, this set serves as a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the potential for enlightenment that lies within each of us. Its presence can transform any space into a sanctuary for contemplation and spiritual growth. Place it on your altar, use it during your daily meditation, or simply admire it as a work of art that embodies centuries of wisdom and tradition.

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.