Superfine Mahakala Wall Hanging Mask - Tibetan Buddhist Deity

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$150.75

$201

25% off

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Specifications

	EB85
	Copper Statue Gilded with 24 Karat Gold
	Height: 4 inch
	Width: 4.4 inch
	Depth: 1.3 inch
	Weight 800 gm

Delivery and Return Policies


	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
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Fully Insured

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100% Handmade

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MADE IN INDIA.

Embodiment of Divine Protection

This exquisite wall hanging mask captures the formidable and protective essence of Mahakala, a fierce deity revered in Tibetan Buddhism. Mahakala, often translated as "Great Black One," is an emanation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. Despite his wrathful appearance, Mahakala's purpose is not to harm but to overcome obstacles, destroy ignorance, and vanquish negative forces that hinder spiritual progress. His fearsome visage is a powerful symbol of the triumph of wisdom over delusion.

Artistry and Symbolism

Crafted from copper and meticulously gilded with 24-karat gold, this mask radiates an aura of sacredness and permanence. The intense gaze of the deity, accentuated by diamond-like inlays in the eyes, conveys unwavering vigilance. Flamboyant, flame-like projections surround the mask, symbolizing the fire of purification that burns away negativity and illusion. The intricate details, including the snarling mouth revealing sharp teeth and the undulating serpents adorning the sides, are not merely decorative but deeply symbolic. Serpents are often associated with transformation, rebirth, and the subduing of primal energies. The deep, furrowed brow speaks of intense concentration and the deep wisdom required to confront and overcome challenges. Emeralds and rubies are strategically placed, adding to the mask's opulence and representing specific qualities or cosmic energies.

A Guardian for Your Space

In Tibetan Buddhist traditions, masks like these are not merely decorative objects; they are potent talismans imbued with spiritual power. They are used in rituals, depicted in thangkas, and sometimes worn by monks during sacred dances to embody the deities they represent. Displaying this Mahakala mask in your home or meditation space serves as a constant reminder of the presence of divine protection. It can inspire courage, promote focus, and offer a shield against the adversities of life. Its presence can transform an ordinary space into a sanctuary, a place where spiritual aspiration and protection are paramount. The rich patina of the gold, combined with the vibrant gemstone accents, creates a piece that is both a powerful spiritual artifact and a stunning work of art. This mask is a profound representation of Buddhist philosophy, offering a tangible connection to the immense power and compassionate protection of Mahakala.

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.