Oxidized Copper Alloy 13" Shakyamuni Buddha / Sangye Tomba Statue from Patan, Nepal

Shakyamuni Buddha / Sangye Tomba – The Lion of the Shakyas

Shakyamuni Buddha / Sangye Tomba is the Buddha of our time. He is the glorious root teacher of all the diverse lineages that make up Buddhism as we know it. Born Siddhartha Gautama more than 2500 years ago, he was the crown prince of the Shakya kingdom located in the Himalayan foothills of what is now southern Nepal. He left luxurious palace life behind him, however, in pursuit of the truth of the origin of suffering and the cessation of fear. His astounding courage, determination, wisdom and compassion led to his perfect enlightenment despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. His teachings have transformed individuals and nations throughout the world and still speak to us today.

Gestures and Attributes

The Shakyamuni Buddha / Sangye Tomba is depicted with his right hand extended to the earth in the Bhumisparsha Mudra, the gesture of witness. He is "calling the earth to witness" his supreme victory over the temptations and illusions of the material world as symbolized by the demon Mara. His left hand lies in his lap with palm upward in the gesture of meditation (Dhyana Mudra). In some representations he also holds the begging bowl of an ordained Buddhist monk. The bowl contains three precious nectars indicating that he has conquered the three demons of uncontrolled death, contaminated aggregates, and delusion. Thus, this posture is known as "Buddha Shakyamuni Conquering the Demons" and shows the moment of the Buddha's full enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

About this Sculpture

This statue is a charming portrayal of Shakyamuni Buddha / Sangye Tomba. Finely sculpted from copper alloy using lost wax method, the statue has been submitted to an oxidation process to yield a rich and sensuous finish and has fine intricate hand carvings. The Buddha sits gracefully in meditation upon a lotus throne, expressing the calm majesty of one who has mastered himself. With his head slightly inclined, he seems to smile with a secret inner joy, prompting feelings of encouragement and happiness in the observer. His robes are exquisitely carved throughout, showing marvelous detailing especially on the back of the sculpture, where a beautiful lotus blossom is surrounded by intricately carved leaves and vines. And over all, the lovely copper finish lends a pleasing sense of warmth, gently inviting one to linger, leaving thoughts of the world behind.