Tibetan Buddhist Copper Alloy with Gold Gilded, Hand Painted Face 19" Aparmita Statue

Aparmita / Amitayus / Tsepame Statue

 Aparmita / Amitayus / Tsepame – The Buddha of Infinite Life

Aparmita / Tsepame (also called Amitayus) is the name of Buddha Amitabha in his Bestower of Longevity aspect. He may be regarded as either a celestial Buddha or a fully realized Bodhisattva, having attained Buddhahood many eons ago as a result of his infinite merit accumulated over countless past lives as a Bodhisattva. According to the Larger Sutra of Immeasurable Life, Aparmita, through the power of his good deeds, created a pure heavenly realm where he now dwells along with his innumerable divine disciples, enjoying boundless and endless life. He promises that if any faithful man or woman calls upon him at the moment of death, he will appear, together with a multitude of blessed sages, and deliver the dying person to his Pure Land where they will live in the light of the Dharma, free from suffering and death.

Gestures and Attributes

Aparmita / Amitayus / Tsepame sits in perfect equanimity with his hands in Dhyana Mudra, the gesture of meditation. Both of his palms lie face up in his lap where they hold the ambrosia treasure vase that is his special emblem. His right hand, resting on top, symbolizes the state of enlightenment, while his left hand, resting below, represents the world of appearance. Thus, Aparmita's posture expresses his mastery over the world of appearance through enlightenment and signifies the enlightened state of mind for which samsara and nirvana are one. His vase contains amrita, the elixir of awakening and immortality, and is adorned with leaves of Ashoka, a sacred flowering tree. This vase, along with its contents and adornments, symbolizes Aparmita's compassionate gift of a long life free from sickness and suffering.

About this Sculpture

This exquisite statue of Aparmita, also known as Tsepame, beautifully captures the essence of longevity and compassion. Masterfully crafted from copper alloy using the ancient Lost Wax Method, this sacred artwork is gilded with 24-karat gold, exuding an aura of divine brilliance. The hand-painted face reflects serenity and wisdom, inspiring reverence and devotion.

Adorned with original turquoise, coral, shell, and lapis stones, the statue achieves a rich and sensuous finish that enhances its visual splendor. The intricate hand-carved details, highlighted by radiant gold gilding and elegant stone decorations, breathe life into the figure, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of its creators.

This extraordinary piece was individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the illustrious Shakya clan. Renowned for their unparalleled expertise, these artisans are the modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. Their skillful mastery of fine metalworking, passed down through generations, ensures that each sculpture is a timeless masterpiece of spiritual and artistic significance.

The Aparmita statue is more than an object of art; it is a profound symbol of spiritual heritage and devotion. A harmonious blend of meticulous craftsmanship and sacred artistry, this sculpture makes a treasured addition to any sacred or artistic collection, embodying the enduring legacy of Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.