Buddhist Handmade Statue of Chenrezig – Partly Gold Plated, Face Painted
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Item Code: HME26121
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Weight: 3532 grams
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Dimensions (cm): 35 x 19 x 13
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Material: Copper
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Finish: Partly Fire-Gold Plated, Face Painted
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Availability: Available
Chenrezig: The Embodiment of Compassion
Chenrezig, known in Sanskrit as Avalokiteshvara, is one of the most revered bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism. He embodies infinite compassion and is venerated as the savior who selflessly renounces entry into nirvana in order to assist all sentient beings on their path to liberation. His role highlights the Mahayana ideal of selfless service and universal salvation.
While early Buddhist traditions emphasized wisdom as the supreme virtue, Mahayana Buddhism elevated compassion to equal standing. Chenrezig represents this profound shift, serving as a powerful symbol of both enlightened wisdom and active compassion. In this tradition, the possibility of enlightenment is extended to all beings—monastic and lay practitioners alike.
Gold-Painted Face
The face of the Chenrezig statue is meticulously painted with gold to emphasize its most expressive features—especially the eyes and lips. This traditional practice not only adds a striking aesthetic but also breathes life into the statue, preparing it for spiritual use and consecration. The gold-painted face reflects the artisan’s devotion and skill, creating a sacred presence that is central to Buddhist ritual and meditation.
Partly Gold-Plated Finish
This statue features partial fire-gilding, a method commonly used in Nepalese craftsmanship. Using a masking technique, artisans apply gold only to select areas of the statue, typically the body, while preserving other sections in painted or oxidized finishes. The result is a striking contrast between the divine brilliance of the gilded body and the modest, earthy tones of the attire—symbolizing the harmonious balance between spiritual purity and monastic humility. This method not only enhances the visual beauty but also adds layers of symbolic meaning to the statue.
Crafted by Lost-Wax Casting
The statue is created through the ancient lost-wax casting technique, known for its precision and artisanal value. The process begins with the creation of a detailed wax model, which is layered with ceramic to form a mold. After the wax is melted out, molten metal is poured into the cavity. Once cooled, the mold is removed to reveal a finished sculpture that faithfully replicates the original wax model. This method ensures that each piece is unique, capturing fine details that define traditional Himalayan artistry.
