Hand Carved 24 Karat Gold Gilded Hand Painted Face Tibetan19" Chenrezig Copper Ritual Statue

Chenrezig / Four Armed Avalokiteshvara Statue

 Chenrezig / Four Armed Avalokiteshvara – The Bodhisattva of Compassion

Chenrezig, also called Avalokiteshvara, is the embodiment of the enlightened compassion of all the Buddhas. He is the earthly incarnation of the celestial Buddha Amitabha, and he guards our world during the interval between the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, and the future Buddha, Maitreya. Chenrezig / Avalokiteshvara is universally cherished in all branches of Buddhism and is considered the patron Bodhisattva of Tibet. Even in non-Buddhist countries, most people are familiar with his mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. Chenrezig courageously vowed that so long as even one being remains caught in samsara, he will continue to work for the benefit of living creatures. His wisdom, compassion and endurance know no bounds, and he is especially revered for granting realizations and spiritual attainments to those who meditate upon him.

Gestures and Attributes

Chenrezig / Avalokiteshvara is depicted here in his four-armed form, which symbolizes his whirlwind of constant activity in the world. Two of his hands are pressed together at his heart where they hold the wish-fulfilling jewel of enlightenment, the Chintamani. This jewel manifests whatever a faithful seeker may pray for and is also a metaphor for the profound teachings and virtues of the Buddha. Chenrezig's clasped hand position further expresses his gratitude and respect for Buddha Amitabha.

In his upper right hand, he holds a crystal mala, or Buddhist rosary, that he unceasingly counts and which represents his continuous compassionate activity in the world. And in his upper left hand, he holds a beautiful lotus flower in full bloom. Just as the lotus arises, dazzling and pure, from dark muddy waters, Chenrezig constantly manifests amidst the misery and suffering of our world, but is never stained or tainted by samsaric conditions. His blossoming lotus is meant to inspire us to do the same, by unfolding the pure compassion of our true natures even amidst the challenges of worldly existence.

Symbolism

On Chenrezig's left side, at the level of his heart, is the gentle face of a wild deer; the deer's skin is draped over his shoulder. The deerskin is an ancient symbol of renunciation, as wandering mendicants often took the skin of a deer as a meditation seat, and sometimes as a garment and blanket. This symbolic meaning applies, as Chenrezig / Avalokiteshvara, a Bodhisattva, has renounced the snares of worldly existence, but here it further symbolizes his boundless compassion for sentient beings. According to legend, Chenrezig once took rebirth as a wild deer, but he had such heartfelt compassion for the hunter who chased him that he willingly laid down his life.

About this Sculpture

This awe-inspiring statue stands as a divine portrayal of Chenrezig/Four Armed Avalokiteshvara, radiating with sublime beauty and compassion. Crafted with unparalleled skill and devotion, it is a testament to the timeless artistry of the master artisans of the Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal.

Sculpted from copper alloy using the revered lost wax method, every contour and detail of this masterpiece reflects a meticulous craftsmanship honed over generations. Adorned with the opulence of 24-karat gold gilding, delicately applied to enhance its celestial allure, the statue exudes an aura of sacred majesty. The hand-painted face adds a touch of humanity and intimacy to the divine countenance, inviting the viewer into a profound spiritual connection. Complemented by the exquisite turquoise and coral stones, each carefully placed to accentuate its divine radiance, the statue becomes a symphony of color and texture, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. In the graceful poise of Chenrezig/Four Armed Avalokiteshvara, seated in sublime meditation, one glimpses the embodiment of compassion and wisdom. From the finely carved five-pointed crown to the elegantly detailed ornaments of a Bodhisattva, every element speaks of a compassionate vow to alleviate the suffering of all sentient beings. Particularly striking are the intricately carved necklaces and arm ornaments, their exquisite patterns a testament to the artisan's mastery of their craft. Adorning the monastic robes are marvelously detailed flowers, and motifs of leaves and vines, weaving a tapestry of beauty and meaning that transcends time and space. At the base, intricately hand-carved with winding vines, one finds a reflection of the interconnectedness of all things, reminding us of the eternal cycle of life and rebirth.

Crafted with reverence and devotion by the master artisans of the Shakya clan, this statue stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving a centuries-old tradition of sacred artistry. Through their skillful hands, they breathe life into metal, creating a timeless treasure that inspires reverence and contemplation in all who behold it. Truly, it is a masterpiece that captures the divine essence of compassion and enlightenment, inviting us to embark on a journey of spiritual awakening and transformation.