Hand Made Silver Plated Copper Alloy in Oxidation Finish 13.25" Saraswati Statue

Saraswati Statue

 Saraswati – The Goddess of Knowledge, Arts, and Wisdom

Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom, and learning. Revered as the divine consort of Brahma, the creator in the Hindu Trinity, she embodies the river of knowledge that dispels ignorance and darkness. Her name, Saraswati, is derived from the Sanskrit words "sara" (essence) and "sva" (self), signifying "the essence of the self."

Often depicted as a graceful figure clad in pure white, Saraswati sits on a white lotus, symbolizing purity and transcendence. She holds a veena, a musical instrument, representing the creative arts and sciences, and a book, embodying the Vedas and divine wisdom. In her other hands, she carries a rosary (mala), symbolizing meditation and spirituality, and a pot of water, denoting the purifying power of knowledge.

Saraswati's association with the swan, known for its ability to separate milk from water, signifies discernment and the ability to distinguish between truth and falsehood. The peacock, often seen near her, represents beauty and the arts, as well as the unpredictability of life.

She is worshipped widely during Vasant Panchami, a festival that marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of learning for children. On this day, devotees seek her blessings for wisdom and artistic skills, often starting new educational pursuits.

Saraswati's influence extends beyond Hinduism, resonating in Jainism and Buddhism, where she is also revered as a symbol of wisdom and learning. Her timeless legacy continues to inspire scholars, artists, and musicians around the world, embodying the pursuit of knowledge and the harmonious blending of intellect and creativity.

Gestures and Attributes

Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, art, wisdom, and learning, is often depicted with several specific gestures and attributes that symbolize her various aspects. Here are the key features and attributes associated with Saraswati:

Gestures (Mudras)

Abhaya Mudra: This gesture of fearlessness is performed with the right hand raised to shoulder height, palm facing outward. It represents protection and reassurance.

Varada Mudra: This gesture of blessing and charity is performed with the left hand extended downward, palm facing outward. It signifies the granting of boons and compassion.

Attributes

Veena: Saraswati is often depicted holding or playing the Veena, a traditional Indian string instrument. This represents her mastery over arts and music and symbolizes the harmony of knowledge and wisdom.

Book (Vedas): A book in her hand signifies knowledge and wisdom. It often represents the sacred scriptures (Vedas) which are the ultimate source of knowledge.

Rosary (Akshamala): The rosary, or a string of beads, symbolizes concentration, meditation, and spirituality. It signifies the importance of contemplation and devotion in attaining true knowledge.

Lotus (Padma): She is often shown seated on or holding a lotus, which represents purity, beauty, and transcendence. The lotus signifies the blossoming of true knowledge and the ability to rise above worldly attachments.

Swan (Hamsa): The swan is often depicted alongside Saraswati. It symbolizes wisdom, elegance, and the ability to discern between good and evil or the eternal and the transitory.

White Color: Saraswati is usually depicted wearing white, which represents purity, wisdom, and knowledge. The white sari she wears signifies her connection with the true essence of learning and enlightenment.

Peacock: Sometimes, a peacock is shown near her, symbolizing beauty and the colorful aspects of art and culture. It also represents the ego, which she has mastered.

These gestures and attributes collectively emphasize Saraswati’s role as the goddess who imparts wisdom and knowledge, guiding her devotees toward enlightenment and artistic inspiration.

About This Sculpture

This exquisite Saraswati statue is a breathtaking work of art that captures the serene beauty and divine grace of the Hindu goddess of knowledge, arts, and wisdom. Crafted by master artisans of the Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal, this sculpture is a testament to the centuries-old tradition of sacred metalwork that has been passed down through generations.

Finely sculpted from a copper alloy using the intricate lost wax method, the statue has been silver-plated and subjected to an oxidation process, yielding a rich, sensuous finish that radiates warmth and elegance. The Goddess Saraswati is depicted seated gracefully on a lotus throne, her head slightly inclined as she plays the veena, a musical instrument that symbolizes the harmony of the universe and the rhythmic flow of creative expression.

The attention to detail in this sculpture is truly remarkable. Saraswati's robes, five-pointed crown, jewelry, and attributes are all meticulously hand-carved, showcasing the exceptional skill and artistry of the Shakya craftsmen. Each fold of her garment, each intricate design, and each delicate feature reflects the fine detailing and techniques that have been refined over centuries of practice.

The combination of the silver-plated surface and the oxidized finish lends the statue a captivating, almost ethereal quality, inviting the observer to linger and bask in the Goddess's serene presence. Saraswati's calm and beautiful expression, with her slightly inclined head, conveys a sense of inner joy and wisdom that radiates outward, inspiring reverence and contemplation.

As a product of the Shakya clan's mastery, this Saraswati statue represents the enduring legacy of sacred art in Nepal. These modern artisans, heirs to an ancient tradition, continue to create breathtaking works that transcend time and space, connecting the present to the timeless wisdom of the past.