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Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
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Fully Insured
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100% Handmade
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MADE IN INDIA.

Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Wheel from Nepal

$224
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
ZDF60
Brass and Copper with Inlay
Height: 8.1 inch
Width: 3.8 inch
Depth: 3.8 inch
Weight 600 gm
Delivery and Return Policies
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.

A Beacon of Serenity and Spiritual Practice

This exquisite Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel is a tangible embodiment of centuries of spiritual tradition and artisanal mastery, originating from the heart of Nepal. More than just an object of beauty, it is a sacred tool designed to bring peace, merit, and enlightenment to its beholder. Crafted from a harmonious blend of brass and copper, its surface is adorned with intricate inlay work, featuring vibrant turquoise and striking red and blue hues, creating a captivating visual tapestry. The detailed craftsmanship speaks to the dedication and skill of the artisans who meticulously brought this piece to life, preserving ancient techniques passed down through generations. ––––––––––––––––––––

The Sacred Spin: Purpose and Symbolism

In Tibetan Buddhism, prayer wheels are fundamental instruments for accumulating merit and purifying negative karma. It is believed that the mantras inscribed within the wheel, when spun, are amplified and broadcast to the universe, generating positive spiritual energy. This particular prayer wheel, with its richly adorned exterior, mirrors the spiritual journey it represents. The vibrant turquoise stones are often associated with wisdom, protection, and healing, while the contrasting red and blue pigments can symbolize various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, such as compassion and skill in action, or the five Dhyani Buddhas. The act of turning the wheel is said to be equivalent to reciting the mantras contained within its core, a practice that cultivates mindfulness and deepens one's connection to the divine. It is a kinetic form of meditation, inviting practitioners to find tranquility in motion and devotion in every rotation. ––––––––––––––––––––

Artistry Rooted in Devotion

The construction of this prayer wheel is a testament to the deep spiritual and cultural significance it holds. The sturdy brass and copper provide a durable foundation, while the careful inlay of precious stones and colorful resins adds layers of symbolic meaning and visual splendor. The intricate filigree work seen in the bands of the wheel further enhances its aesthetic appeal, evoking the delicate patterns found in mandalas and sacred art. Each element, from the overall form to the smallest decorative detail, is imbued with intention and reverence. This piece is not merely decorative; it is a functional artifact that invites contemplation and spiritual engagement, a beautiful fusion of form and profound purpose, handcrafted to inspire peace and mindfulness in any setting.

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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Frequently Asked Questions
  • Q. Is the statue hollow or solid ?
    A. Brass statues are made through a process of clay casting, hence are hollow. Whereas, panchaloha bronze statues are made through a process of lost wax casting, hence they are solid.
  • Q. Can I return the statue ?
    A. Of course you can return a statue. Returns need to be initiated within seven (7) days after delivery. All returned items must be in new and unused condition, with all original tags and labels attached. To know more about our Return Policy, please visit Return Policy.
  • Q. Can you customise the statue for me ?
    A. For any customisation, kindly email us at help@exoticindia.com.
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