Buddha fasting, Buddha in 'bhumisparsha-mudra', Buddha's 'dharmachakra-pravartana', teaching Buddha, Buddha's 'Nirvana' and thousand Buddha have exceptional significance in Buddhist classical iconography. These forms of his iconography are not mere artistic innovations of his life theme but depict the turning points and some of the cardinal events of his life. The earth touching posture or his 'bhumisparsha-mudra' constitutes the exact central point to the episode of Buddha's attainment of enlightenment. It depicts the phase when seated under the Pipal tree he was engaged in his penance and was almost on the verge of attaining Enlightenment. As always, it alarmed the forces of Evil, which fed on darkness or ignorance and delighted in obstructing the process of enlightening. Hence, Evil, personified as Mara and armed with horror, fear, temptation, 'Kama' and beauty, attacked Buddha and tried on him all its weapons. When nothing worked Mara created confusion all around. There rose voices that said, 'Gautam, you are vanished'. Mara aimed at confusing him but set deep within him and unaffected by whatever happened beyond, Buddha quietly lowered his right arm and extended its middle finger to reach the Earth. He touched the Mother Earth and invoked her to witness that whatever came his way, he did not astray from his path. He thus defeated Evil and a little after there emerged divine light and Gautam was the Enlightened, the Buddha.
This 'Padmasana' image of Buddha is in meditative posture, which is its prime theme and the basic character of the moment which it depicts. Mara's attack and other related activity are only a passing phase. Hence, but for his right hand lowered to touch the mother Earth, his entire form manifests him in his meditative demeanour, which his left hand so absolutely symbolises. Broad forehead, sharp nose, cute small lips, pointed chin and semi-opened lotus like eyes define the aesthetic beauty of his face. His arms are larger than the usual ones but in no way ill-balanced. Rather, as regards the theme which they are made to depict, the larger arms of the image are aesthetically more apt for while touching the Earth, the craftsman had not to bend his figure. The left half of his torso is covered by fine sash visible only from its beautifully embroidered bordering lace. Characteristic to Tibetan Buddhist art the image has around its waist, thigh etc. a fine 'dhoti' trailing behind, around and on the 'pitha'. By any parameters the sculpture is a master-piece of art.
This description by Prof. P.C. Jain and Dr. Daljeet. Prof. Jain specializes on the aesthetics of literature and is the author of numerous books on Indian art and culture. Dr. Daljeet is the curator of the Miniature Painting Gallery, National Museum, New Delhi. They have both collaborated together on a number of books.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist