Materials:
Lapis lazuli
Gold-plated copper
Coral
Turquoise
Wood

Dimensions & Weight:
Statue Height: 6.2 inches
Base Height: 2.3 inches
Weight: 1.1 kilograms

Shipping Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal

Description:
This exceptional Buddha statue is crafted from solid, carved pieces of lapis lazuli set in a body sculpted from copper that is then gold-plated. Coral and turquoise inlay details adorn the neck and arm. Buddha’s robes are hand-etched. The black-stained wooden lotus base is included with this statue.

Shakyamuni Buddha, also known as Gautama Buddha, has his right hand reaching down to touch the earth and his left hand resting in his lap (the gesture of meditation) holding his alms bowl, also carved from lapis lazuli. Buddha is seated in the lotus position of meditation – legs crossed at the ankles with the soles upward – his back is completely straight. He wears a simple, thin monk’s robe that covers his left shoulder and arm and exposes the right. At the top of his head is a protuberance that is associated with transcendent wisdom. His hair is shown as a mass of compact curls.

This sculpture, like most Tibetan and Nepali art, may be used in meditation as an aid to visualize one’s own enlightenment, as well as that of all other beings. The sacred sculpture gives the practitioner direct access to the Buddha once it is ritually empowered as an embodiment of the Buddha. It may then receive the obeisance, offerings, confessions, and prayers of every variety from the practitioner. These sacred images are invited to take a place of honor on a Buddhist altar, whether at home or in a monastery. There they become a focal point for meditation and ritual.

(Lapis lazuli is one the most sought after semi-precious stones in use since man’s history began. Its deep, celestial blue remains the symbol of royalty and honor, gods and power, spirit and vision. It is a universal symbol of wisdom and truth.)