Hand Carved Copper Alloy Silver Plated in Oxidation Finish 7.25" Shakyamuni Buddha Statue

Shakyamuni Buddha / Tomba Statue

 Shakyamuni – The Lion of the Shakyas

Shakyamuni 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 Buddha 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 his 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 exquisite statue presents a captivating depiction of Shakyamuni Buddha, emanating a profound sense of serenity and grace. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it stands as a testament to the unparalleled skill of the master artisans of the Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal.

Fashioned from copper alloy using the time-honored lost wax method, every contour and curve of this sculpture is imbued with intricate hand carvings, culminating in a breathtaking portrayal of the enlightened one. The fusion of an oxidation finish with silver plating confers upon it a lustrous allure, while the inclusion of Turquoise and Coral stones adds a vibrant touch, infusing the piece with life and vitality.

Notably, the robe of the Buddha, adorned with winding vines, exudes a sense of movement and fluidity, symbolizing the eternal cycle of life and rebirth. At the base, the meticulously crafted lotus, intricately intertwined with vines, serves as a symbol of purity and enlightenment, further enhancing the statue's symbolic resonance.

A striking feature of this masterpiece is the inclusion of a delicately rendered Vajra, resting horizontally upon the lotus base, supported by winding vines on either side. This sacred symbol, revered for its connotations of indestructibility and enlightenment, adds a profound layer of spiritual significance to the sculpture.

As a testament to the enduring legacy of Nepalese craftsmanship, this sculpture represents not only a work of art but also a link to a centuries-old tradition of sacred craftsmanship. Passed down through generations, the fine metalworking techniques employed in its creation are a testament to the unwavering dedication and skill of the Shakya clan artisans, who continue to uphold the rich cultural heritage of their ancestors.