[Thangtong Gyalpo], Buddhist Miniature Statue, [Chocolate Oxidized]

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Authentic Since 1976

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HME35901 In Stock & Ready to Export 373 views

[Thangtong Gyalpo], Buddhist Miniature Statue, [Chocolate Oxidized]

US$ 250.00

Direct Artisan Price • Ex-factory Kathmandu

Min Order: 1 pc

Dimensions:	16x13x9 cm (6.3 × 5.1 × 3.5 inches)
Gross Weight:	0.82 kg (1.81 lbs)
Material:	Copper
Iconography / Artist:	Thangtong Gyalpo
Craft Origin:	Kathmandu Valley, Nepal • Ancient Heritage Technique
Cataloged On:	Jul 28, 2025

Quantity:

Subtotal: US$ 250.00

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Thangtong Gyalpo

Thangtong Gyalpo (1385–1464), also known as the Iron Bridge Builder, was a revered Tibetan yogi, scholar, architect, engineer, physician, blacksmith, and tantric master. A polymath and spiritual luminary, he is best known for constructing over 58 iron chain suspension bridges across the Himalayas and for founding the Tibetan opera (Lhamo) to raise funds for his engineering projects. He is considered a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara and was deeply committed to benefiting beings through practical action and spiritual wisdom.

Thangtong Gyalpo, whose name means “King of the Empty Plain,” was a legendary figure in Tibetan history, embodying the perfect union of spiritual realization and practical genius. A disciple of the Shangpa Kagyu lineage, he traveled widely across Tibet, Bhutan, and even parts of India, building bridges to connect remote regions and ease the hardships of travel for pilgrims and traders.

He innovated iron chain bridge construction—a revolutionary technique for the time—earning him the title of father of Tibetan engineering. In addition to engineering feats, he built numerous monasteries, stupas, and temples, including the famous Chaksam Chuwori Monastery. His contributions to Tibetan performing arts through the creation of the Lhamo opera tradition left a cultural legacy still alive today.

Thangtong Gyalpo is venerated not only for his spiritual accomplishments but also for his service to humanity. His statues often depict him with long hair, holding a chain link or bridge model, symbolizing his deep compassion expressed through tangible works

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.

Express Carriers: We partner with DHL Express, FedEx International, and licensed Air Cargo freighters with end-to-end tracking.
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.
100% Transit Insurance: All international shipments are fully insured against loss or damage during transit.
Customs Clearance & Documentation: Includes official Nepal Archaeological Department export clearances certifying modern non-antique artisan status for hassle-free customs clearance.