Buddhist Statue of Yellow Jambhala – Full Fire Gold Plated, Painted Face
▫ Item Code: HME23598
▫ Weight: 3,320 grams
▫ Size: 34 x 20 x 12 cm
▫ Material: Copper
▫ Availability: Available
Yellow Jambhala: The God of Wealth
Yellow Jambhala (also known as Dzambhala, Dzambala, Zambala, or Jambala) is revered as the God of Wealth and a member of the Jewel Family (see Ratnasambhava). He is sometimes associated with the Hindu deity Kubera and is also believed to be an emanation of Avalokitesvara (Chenrezig), the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
There are five different wealth Jambhalas, each with unique practices and mantras that help eliminate poverty and bring financial stability. According to Gyalten Sogdzin Rinpoche, Jambhala protects all lineages and sentient beings from sickness and hardship. He is not only a Bodhisattva of material and spiritual wealth but also a guardian against obstacles and misfortunes.
Jambhala assumes a wrathful and powerful form to shield practitioners from harmful spirits and negative karma. His presence is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and protection from misfortunes.
Gold-Painted Face: A Symbolic and Sacred Ritual
The face of this Yellow Jambhala statue is carefully hand-painted with gold, enhancing its significant features—particularly the eyes and lips. This meticulous detailing is essential, as it brings life to the expression in a way that metal carving alone cannot achieve.
In Buddhist tradition, painting the statue’s face with gold is a sacred ritual that symbolizes the activation of its spiritual presence. This practice prepares the statue for consecration and devotion, imbuing it with vitality. The application of gold not only reflects the artisans’ dedication but also honors the divine essence of Yellow Jambhala.
Full Fire Gold Plating: Traditional Craftsmanship
This Yellow Jambhala statue is adorned with full fire gold plating, also known as mercury gold plating—a traditional Nepali technique. Unlike electroplating, this method involves fusing a layer of pure gold onto the statue, ensuring durability and an authentic, radiant finish.
Although more expensive than modern electroplating, fire gold plating is valued for its authenticity, longevity, and the brilliance it imparts to sacred statues. This method is regaining popularity in Nepal as artisans and collectors appreciate its traditional craftsmanship and cultural significance.
Lost-Wax Casting: An Ancient Art Form
This Yellow Jambhala statue is crafted using the lost-wax casting technique, a centuries-old method of metal sculpting.
- Wax Model Creation – Skilled artisans sculpt a detailed wax model, capturing intricate features.
- Ceramic Molding – The wax model is coated with multiple layers of ceramic material to form a mold.
- Wax Removal – The mold is heated, melting away the wax and leaving a hollow cavity.
- Metal Casting – Molten metal is poured into the cavity, taking the exact shape of the original wax model.
- Final Detailing – Once cooled, the ceramic shell is removed, revealing the refined metal sculpture.
This meticulous process ensures exceptional precision, making each statue a unique masterpiece of craftsmanship.
