High-Quality Buddhist Statue of Rahula – Partly Gold-Plated, Face Painted
- Item Code: HME25556
- Weight: 3,355 grams
- Dimensions: 36 x 17 x 13 cm (14 x 6.5 x 5 inches)
- Material: Copper
- Availability: Sold
Rahula: A Brief Introduction
Rahula emerges from the fire of infinite ferocity, embodying both power and wisdom. Having cunningly secured the nectar of immortality, he now wields his venom and guile for the greater good. As a great planetary deity and protector of the Dharma, Rahula ensures cosmic balance. His influence extends over all planets, symbolizing the Buddhist principle of transformation—where even darkness can be harnessed to serve enlightenment.
Gold-Painted Face: A Sacred Tradition
The face of this Rahula statue is meticulously painted with gold to accentuate its most significant features—particularly the eyes and lips. This intricate detailing enhances the expression and vitality of the statue, capturing emotions that metal carving alone cannot convey.
In Buddhist traditions, gold face painting holds deep spiritual significance. It is a sacred ritual preparing the statue for consecration and practice, symbolizing the infusion of divine presence. The application of gold reflects devotion, craftsmanship, and reverence for the deity, ensuring that every aspect of the statue is honored with precision and care.
Partly Gold-Plated Finish
This Rahula statue features a partly gold-plated finish, created using the traditional fire-gilding technique. This process, a hallmark of Nepali craftsmanship, involves applying a protective mask to selected areas before subjecting the piece to high temperatures. The gold adheres beautifully to exposed surfaces, creating a striking contrast between the radiant golden body and the oxidized or maroon-painted clothing.
In Buddhist iconography, this distinction carries profound meaning. The golden body represents divine purity, while the darker attire signifies humility and the ascetic path of monks. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the statue but also embodies deep spiritual symbolism.
The Lost-Wax Casting Method
This exquisite Rahula statue is crafted using the lost-wax casting process, an ancient technique perfected over centuries. The process begins with a detailed wax model, which is coated in multiple layers of ceramic to form a mold. Once hardened, the wax is melted away, leaving a precise cavity. Molten metal is then poured into the mold, capturing every intricate detail of the original design. After cooling, the ceramic shell is carefully removed, revealing the finely cast metal sculpture.
This meticulous method ensures the highest level of detail and durability, making each statue a true masterpiece of Nepali metalwork.
