[Fasting Buddha], Buddhist Statue, [Antique], [Chocolate Oxidized]
| Dimensions: | 17.5x9x5.5 cm (6.9 × 3.5 × 2.2 inches) |
| Gross Weight: | 0.79 kg (1.74 lbs) |
| Material: | Copper |
| Iconography / Artist: | Fasting Buddha |
| Craft Origin: | Kathmandu Valley, Nepal • Ancient Heritage Technique |
| Cataloged On: | Nov 24, 2023 |
Fasting Buddha
The Buddha's Middle Path refers to avoiding extremes of indulgence and self-mortification on the one hand. Prior to attaining nirvana, Shakyamuni followed a strict austerity and fasting regime that was common among the sramana religions of the time, according to early Buddhist texts. These austerities, which he shared with five other ascetics, did not result in spiritual advancement but did cause him to become so emaciated that he could barely stand.
He attained awakening only after abandoning the practice of harsh asceticism, including extreme fasting, and instead focusing on the practice of meditation and jhana. As a result of this experience, the Buddha criticized the fasting practiced by Indian ascetics of his time, such as Jains, who believed that fasting burned off bad karma.
Centuries-Old Lost-Wax Metal Casting
Each sculpture at Handmade Handicraft is crafted using the ancient cire-perdue (lost-wax) technique, a craft perfected over a millennium by the Newar artisans of Patan. The process begins with sculpting beeswax and Himalayan tree resin by hand. A multi-layered clay mold is formed around the wax, which is melted away in the furnace, creating a void that is filled with molten red copper or bronze.
24K Mercury Gilding
Applied with pure gold leaf and fused using fire gilding for an ethereal sheen that endures for generations.
Cold-Gold Face Painting
The sacred facial features and serene gaze of deities are carefully rendered with powdered cold gold and natural pigments.
Hand-Chiseled Detailing
Intricate robes, mandalas, and jewels are carved by hand with miniature steel chisels and devotion.
Door-to-Door Worldwide Express Delivery
Since 1976, we have shipped thousands of delicate sacred statues and handicrafts across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia with an exceptional track record of safe delivery.
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Express Carriers: We partner with DHL Express, FedEx International, and licensed Air Cargo freighters with end-to-end tracking.
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Museum-Grade Packaging: Each piece is wrapped in moisture-resistant vapor barriers, thick high-density foam cushioning, and reinforced export cartons or custom wooden crates for large statues.
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100% Transit Insurance: All international shipments are fully insured against loss or damage during transit.
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Customs Clearance & Documentation: Includes official Nepal Archaeological Department export clearances certifying modern non-antique artisan status for hassle-free customs clearance.