Fine Quality Tibetan Buddhist 17" Shakyamuni Buddha / Tomba on Throne Statue

Shakyamuni Buddha / Tomba on Throne Sculpture

 Shakyamuni Buddha / Tomba – The Lion of the Shakyas

Shakyamuni / 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 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 sculpture is a profoundly moving representation of Buddha Shakyamuni / Tomba, expertly cast from copper alloy using the lost wax method and finely hand-carved. The Buddha sits majestically upon a beautifully hand-crafted throne, his head slightly bowed and a soft smile gracing his serene features as he is lost in sublime meditation.

The Buddha's monastic robes drape beautifully across his shoulder and arm, each fold and detail meticulously hand-carved by the skilled artisans. The oxidation finish adds a rich and sensuous quality to the sculpture, bringing the Buddha's serene presence to life.

Each piece is individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master artisans of the Shakya clan, who are considered among the best in the world. These craftsmen are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for use in temples and monasteries. The fine metalworking techniques employed in the creation of this piece have been passed down from generation to generation since ancient times, ensuring that each sculpture is a masterpiece that embodies both artistic excellence and profound spiritual significance.

This statue is a testament to the enduring skill and tradition of the Shakya clan, who continue to create masterpieces that inspire and guide practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism. The Buddha's serene expression and the exquisite craftsmanship of the piece invite the viewer to pause, reflect, and connect with the timeless wisdom and compassion of the Enlightened One.