Welcome to Online Buddhist Shop where you can buy Buddha statues, Tibetan Thangkas, Singing Tibetan Bowls, 925 Silver Jewelry, Beaded jewelry, Antiques, Collectibles, Tibetan Silver Jewelry, Buddhist Gifts, Ritual items from anywhere in the world via payment methods like Credit Card, Bank Wire, Paypal etc. We bring you products handmade by a group of fine artists from Patan, the heart of handicraft industry in Nepal, directly from our workshop. We are a manufacturer and dealer of Nepalese handicrafts. You can trust and rely on us 100% for High quality products and services because of the following reason.

• Our Company is Authenticated and verified by Alibaba and VeriSign. Alibaba partners with VeriSign to verify and authenticate the existence and genuineness of the company.
• We are a Gold Supplier in Alibaba (One of the leading B2B global marketplace). We are running on 6th year as a successful Gold Supplier.
• Shakyahandicraft.com is owned by Shakya Handicraft Pvt. Ltd. which is legally registered under the company Act of Government of Nepal.

Buddha Statues

Buddha statues demonstrate 'Buddharupas' which represent the teachings of the Buddha. The path of enlightenment to achieve Nirvana is the ultimate goal of Buddhism. Buddha statue itself is the symbol of sacred learning, which is represented in almost every portion of the statue. The Buddha statues are mostly admired for home and garden decoration. Buddha statues inspire us to develop inner happiness and satisfaction.

Visit our store for beautiful Buddha statues handmade by professional artisans of Patan, Nepal.

Singing Tibetan Bowls Singing bowls also known as Singing Tibetan bowls, healing bowls, crystal bowls, Himalayan bowls, medicine bowls are popular for their special healing and relaxing qualities, introduced by ancient Tibetan. Healing bowls also called as ring gongs and also suzu gongs throughout Japan, the uniquely shaped sacred bowls. They are usually regarded as an instrument connected with meditation and peacefulness, an origin of valuable power by means of tone oscillations. Whenever the surface of the bowl is struck it produces a prolonged, reverberating sound wave which in turn calms the feels. Relaxing and exquisite singing bowls from Nepal, for details and more information see here-> Healing bowls

Tibetan Thangka Thangka paintings are also known as Pauba paintings in Nepal. Buddhist Thangka is the Tibetan version of ancient Buddhist scroll paintings practiced since Buddha's era in Nepal and India. Tibetan Thangkas originated in Nepal's Kathmandu valley where Newari Vajrayana Buddhist culture is practiced. Newari paubha art is the foundation of today's Tibetan Thangkas. Various philosophical and religious elements such as images of Bodhisattvas, images of Buddha, wheel of lifes, map of universe, life cycle of Buddha, etc are the common themes of Tibetan Thangka. These ancient traditional thangka arts are designed to aid meditation, show direction to the seekers of enlightenment/nirvana, and serve as sacred ritual tools during religious ceremonies. We have wide collection of stunning Tibetan Thangka in our store. To see click here-> Tibetan Thangka Painting

925 Silver Jewelry Silver jewelry is regarded as one of the most popular jewelry available in the market. Silver jewelries have timeless beauty as they are fashionable as well as precious. Tibetan sterling silver jewelry has generally been exceptionally looked upon and desired almost everywhere in Asian countries for two millennium. Delicately as well as richly carved motifs, rare gemstones covered, bestowed with spiritual symbolism are enough factors just for their top notch and timeless style. For fashionable sterling silver jewelries and Tibetan 925 silver jewelries, click here->925 Silver Jewelry

Antique Statues The 18th and 19th century old statues designed and handmade by the ancient artisans in Nepal are now much worthy than other statues made today. The statues created then were made up of bronze as the metal was then regarded as the finest metal for best carving and designs. As the statues were handmade, the statues made by different artisan varied and were unique. Those statues are now rare and hard to find and are costly and mostly preserved in museums. Despite of high price, some antique collectors are found to buy these kinds of statues and collect them. Buy authentic and genuine antique statues those where handcarved by the ancient masters of Patan city, visit our store -> Antique statues

Beads/ Beads Jewelry Beads are small objects which are usually pierced for threading or stringing. They are the raw form of jewelries like bracelets, anklets, necklaces, or even earring. Beads range in different sizes, shapes and designs. They are made with different materials like silver, white metals, brass, glasses, semi-precious stones, sea shells, etc. A pair of beads made from Nassarius sea snail shells, approximately 100,000 years old is thought to be earliest known example of jewelry. Beads can be woven together with specialized thread and flexible wire. Visit our store for wide variety of Beads and Beads Jewelry<- here.

Bone Items Bone items like pendants, necklaces, beads, key chains, etc are mostly appreciated by many people for their unique looks and designs. The bone items found and sold in Nepal are mostly made of Yak bones. The Himalayans believe that they absorb spiritual power from the yak bones, giving them an added measure of sound and spiritual meaning.  Interested in Bone items and buying them? Click here-> Bone items

Buddhist Rituals Buddhist Rituals and Art convey the way art function in traditional Buddhist altar. All the Buddhist ritual objects are used in religious rites and mostly are related to Tibetan implements. Objects such as Bell and Vajra, prayer wheels, Butter lamps, Ritual conch shells, Prayer Flags, Phurba, Incense Sticks, Offering bowls, Damaru, and many more are the repertoire of ritual items used in Buddhism. Each ritual object has its specific importance in Buddhism. To buy traditional Buddhist ritual items handmade by the Buddhist artisans in their traditional way here in Nepal, check out our store for religious Buddhist ritual items.

Collectibles Various religious, influencing, and artistic objects found in the market of Nepal like wall mask, tea pots, incense holders, snuff bottles, cymbals, wooden windows, wooden frames, etc are the handmade items by the local artisans of Nepal. These kinds of product are mostly liked and admired by the foreigners who visit Nepal. The items are beautiful, decorative and can be a perfect as gift to anyone. We have wide collection of different and gorgeous collectibles items handmade by our local artisans. Check to see-> Collectibles

Relief Thangka Relief Thangkas also known as 3D Thangkas are made up of wood. They are uniquely carved to ultimately create 3D effect in the Thangka. The main portion of the thangka is embossed from the surface on a plain wood and then painted with different colors similar as other thangka paintings. Then finally they are framed in a wooden frame with a hook at back to be hanged on wall. Check out our stunning and beautiful Relief Thangkas collection at out store here-> Relief Thangka

White Metal Products White metals are used as an alternate for silver. White metal can be used for making jewelries or even as jewelry boxes and other useful items. They are cheaper; white metal has a very attractive appearance and is well admired by jewelry enthusiasts as well. Also, this metal is stronger and long lasting than 925 silver. For different variety of white metal products and jewelries with reasonable pricing, visit out store -> White metal products

Singing Tibetan Bowl- Himalayan Bowls

Singing bowls are ritual object used in the Himalayan region since ancient times. Singing bowls are renowned for their healing and relaxing sound quality. They are idiophonic instruments that broadly fit into the family of bells and gongs. Every singing bowl is unique, and their sound quality depends upon a variety of factors including the combinations of metal, thickness of the bowl and the shape and size of the bowl.

The singing bowls are now increasingly becoming popular in Western civilization since the mid-twentieth century. The reason of its popularity is considered because many of the spiritual inquisitive people these days are exploring Eastern philosophy and religion. As the Eastern philosophies were given importance by the rest of the world, the respective tools including singing bowls were also realized as a vital object.

As the curiosity over these beautiful bowls rose, many inquisitive people started seeking out the relates and history of the singing bowls. However, the origins of singing bowls are mysterious. It is believed that metal working artisans perfected the techniques for making Tibetan Singing Bowls nearly 2,500 years ago!  Even though there are less written history on the origination of singing bowls, there still exist  a rich tradition of oral history that the bowls came from to Tibet at the time when Buddhism was introduced by Padmasambhava.  Therefore, the history of Tibetan Singing Bowls goes back to the 8th century A.D.

It is true that the quality of sound of the ancient bowls cannot be reproduced today. The singing bowls are considered to be a lost art for atleast 50 years and the method followed to make the singing bowl is thought to be lost as well. According to the analysis of old bowls, it reveals that they were made from a variety of metal alloys consisting silver, gold, nickel, copper, zinc, antimony, tin, lead, cobalt, bismuth, arsenic, cadmium, and iron. It is also believed that the real antique bowls also consist of metal taken from meteorites. However, the manufacturing methods used today can produce bowls with beautiful tones. Today, bowls are both hand-hammered and machine-made, or a combination of the two. Modern bowls are most likely to be made of a type of bronze called “bell metal” composed of a mix of copper and tin. The best modern bowls are considered to come from Nepal.

The history of the singing bowls date back to the pre-Buddhist Tibetan Bon culture. It is commonly thought that they were traditionally used both in rituals and, more generally, as food bowls. Although they are referred as Tibetan Singing bowls, they actually are Himalayan bowls as they are present throughout the Himalayan regions of Tibet, Nepal and India. Nowadays, they are used to aid meditation, religious practice, relaxation and healthcare.

Due to the presence of multiple kinds of ore in singing bowls, the multiphonic overtones can be produced. However, it can be very challenging to differentiate between a real antique singing bowl and a new bowl these days as it is easy to make the new bowls appear aged. Although new bowls are capable of producing beautiful tones, only the real aged bowls can produce richest, mellowest tones. One should be very cautious prior to purchasing antique singing bowls as only few experts can authenticate the age and value of singing bowls.

There are two methods of playing singing bowls, either by rubbing a mallet around the rim or by striking the side of the bowls with the mallet. Both the methods produce quite distinctive sounds. The sound of the singing bowl starts peacefully and builds up steadily. The prime idea is deep relaxation that provides you to contact with the inner self. Sound is vibration, and that vibration moves throughout our body. The sound vibration of the singing bowl arouses cellular memory and permeates the sensation with the healing energy. Some of them also vibrate with certain altered brain states. The sound resonating from the singing bowl is very pure and potent in centering the mind and the body. These sounds have a profound impact on energy body of living beings, but also on the environment in general. The legends say that the secrets of sound coming from the singing bowl yield so much power that they must be kept hidden.

The sound of the singing bowl depends upon the pressure applied to the wand onto the rim of the bowl as well as the speed of rotating the wand. Even the wood from which the wand is made up of makes a difference in sound produced by the bowl. Unbalanced sound produced due to too much or too little pressure or the off beam speed will cause a nasty sound which most people may not like resulting complaints from them. However, playing a singing bowl is a meditation in itself. One can rise up into divine empire of unity by entering the mystical world of the muse of sound.

If you’re searching to buy a genuine, handmade Tibetan healing singing bowls through the Internet, you can check http://store.shakyahandicraft.com/ that typically provides, along with different stuff – some of the most real hand-crafted Tibetan healing bowls.

Keep Your Silver Jewelry Free From Tarnish

Everyone wish to yield life time elegance as well as glint to your adored silver jewelry. After certain time being, a layer of tarnish is developed on silver jewelry. Tarnish is a layer of corrosion that develops on sterling silver caused due to humidity. Even perfumes, lotions, hair care products and sweat accelerate tarnish on silver jewelry. Tarnished jewelry has a darkened and dull appearance which makes the jewelry less attractive. Tarnish develops much faster when the silver jewelry is left out in an open than storing in a closed container.

Preventing tarnish on jewelry is more convenient and far less work than removing it. Here are some points that should be considered to keep the silver jewelry free from tarnish.

1. Keep your silver jewelry in a Ziploc bag along with a piece of chalk

It is better to keep the silver jewelry in a cool, dark, dark and not exposed to air. Putting the silver jewelry in a Ziploc bag is a best option but make sure that the bag is dry and free of air. I would recommend wrapping the piece in a soft cloth first, and then place in a Ziploc bag. Squeeze all the air out of the bag before closing. Keep a chalk inside the bag because it will absorb the moisture and will prevent silver jewelry from getting tarnished. Be sure to replace the chalk monthly.

2. Keep your silver jewelry in a separate box

Always locate your silver jewelry within a separate box or even pouch. It is better not to store silver jewelry and non-silver jewelry together with each other.

3. Quick Wipe down

At the end of every jewelry show or party, give each piece of jewelry a quick wipe with a jewelry cleaning/polishing cloth, do a little more thorough wipe-down if it was an outdoor show.

This will remove anything that settled on the surface of your jewelry while it was out of its closed storage, and will really help prevent tarnish from forming.

If your silver jewelry looks dull and has already tarnished, please consider these ideal steps:

• Make use of smooth cotton fabric to remove dirt from sterling silver, along with plain water in case necessary. Do not ever use inorganic detergents that have sarcastic elements such as sulfur, hydrogen sulfide, and so on in water.
• Never bleach authentic silver jeweler. Bleaching removes the main defending sheets of rhodium, lacquer and also nickel covered on the surface, resulting jewelry to be negatively impacted subsequently.
• Silver polishing cloths are impregnated with an abrasive material. These cloths are gentle because, by their very nature, they do not contain the concentration of abrasive particles that would be found in a liquid, paste, or foam polish. Such cloths are most useful for buffing lightly tarnished silver.
• In an aluminum plate (or a regular plate covered with a piece of foil) add 1 tablespoon of salt and baking soda in some hot water and then dip your silver jewelry in the solution and keep it for few minutes, it may however result immediately but if your silver jewelry is very tarnished it might need additional polishing.

We have a wide collection of sterling silver jewelry in our store, check out our store for silver pendant and silver bracelet.

Shakyamuni Buddha- The Life Of Buddha

Shakyamuni Buddha was born in Kapilvastu District, Lumbini Zone (Nepal) in between 563 and 483 BC. He was born in a Shakya clan to father King Suddhodana and Queen Mahamaya the mother and was named ‘Siddhartha’.

Siddhartha is believed to have reincarnated thousands of times as a Bodhisattva to earn good karma, a prerequisite towards becoming a Buddha.

According to ancient legend, Siddhartha’s mother, Mahamaya had a premonitory dream: A white elephant with six tusks descended from the heavens surrounded by a chorus of beatific praises. The elephant approached her, holding a pink lotus flower in its trunk, and placed the flower within the queen’s body. Then the elephant entered her body with ease, and she experienced deep sense of bliss and harmony.

The king summoned holy men to interpret the meaning of the queen’s dream. Their conclusion: “The queen will give birth to a son who will be a great leader. He is destined to become either a mighty emperor who rules throughout the four directions, or a great Teacher who will show the Way of Truth to all beings in Heaven and Earth.” The queen’s dream turned out to be an auspicious omen of the advent of someone special .Keeping to the tradition of those days, the queen visited her parental home to give birth. On the way, there lies the beautiful garden of Lumbini. She decided to take some rest in the garden. It was a lovely spring day. Flowers were in full bloom, birds were singing delightfully. Engrossed in the pleasure of the moment, queen Mahamaya suddenly felt uneasy, she was about to have childbirth. Standing and holding a tree branch with one hand, Queen Mahamaya gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama-The Shakyamuni Buddha. As soon as he came out of the queen’s womb, Siddhartha walked towards the four cardinal directions highlighting his divine origin. . There is an old statue presiding inside the Lumbini museum of Nepal which depicts that scene of nativity.

King Suddhodana sought the help of a Brahmin who referred to the three Vedas to name the child as Siddhartha which means “one whose mission is accomplished”. It was only after Siddhartha received enlightenment that he became renowned as Shakyamuni Buddha, which means “the enlightened one”

In his youth, Siddhartha was exceptionally intelligent, strong and artistic, surpassing all others in his generation. He was married to Yasodhara at the age of seventeen, who gave birth to a son, Rahula. As a young man he became aware of, and was deeply disturbed by the problem of human suffering. He longed to leave his comfortable life in the royal palace and to seek a solution to the four sufferings common to all people: birth into this troubled world, sickness, old age and death. He renounced his wealth and honors and, after years of struggle, near the town of Gaya he achieved a profound enlightenment about the essential nature of life and all things; discovered the cause of human suffering and ways to resolve it. Sufferings of mankind like sickness, old age and death deeply disturbed young prince Siddhartha. Seeking the truth behind human suffering and meaning of existence, Siddhartha renounced his royal life to become an ascetic at the age of twenty nine. He headed towards the mountains near the Nairanjana River where he spent six years. Several years of suffering and penance of ascetic life, however, lead him to conclude that attempting to overcome human suffering and desire through self-denial and force of will was counterproductive. Instead he preferred technique of moderation and balance. But his moderate stance disillusioned some Brahmin followers who abandoned Siddhartha saying that their master had lost spiritual fervor. Nevertheless, Siddhartha continued this approach.  He began the historic meditation under a large Bodhi tree near Bodhgaya (at present in North India). On a full moon day of 588 BC, Siddhartha Gautama attained Nirvana, the liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The next forty-five years of his life was dedicated towards preaching the dharma (Sacred knowledge revealed through enlightenment) among the masses and hence, was known as Gautama Buddha. In Buddhist philosophy, enlightenment is a state in which one comes to understand the true nature of reality and is released from the endless cycle of birth and rebirth that defines earthly existence. That auspicious moment is reflected in all of Buddha’s sculptures.

Buddhism teaches that anyone is capable of achieving enlightenment and, therefore, can become a Buddha, which simply means “Enlightened One.” There are thirty-two major and eight minor physical characteristics associated with the enlightened being. Several of these features, includes the ushnisha, or cranial protuberance on top of his head, and the urna, the mark between his eyebrows, both symbols of wisdom. Shakyamuni Buddha’s message of peace, compassion and humanity spread as far as China and Japan in the East to Afghanistan and central Asia to the west. By the time, he died at the age of eighty in the city of Kusinagara, Buddhism had become a world religion. Buddhism took different forms as it spread. It spread in two main forms, the Theravada (or Hinayana – ‘lesser vehicle’) and the Mahayana (‘greater vehicle’).

Today Buddhism is adhered by one fifth of humanity. Shakyamuni Buddha’s teaching of compassion, moderation and self-communion with universal spirit is as relevant today as it was twenty six centuries ago. There is an interesting contradiction in contemporary Buddhism. Although Buddha himself never condoned idol worshiping  the most popular form of statue in the world is of Shakyamuni Buddha himself, usually in the lotus posture.

You may check out our store for beautiful Shakyamuni Buddha Statues and Shakyamuni Buddha Thangka which reflects the serenity of Buddha.

Astamangala

Astamangala, the eight auspicious symbolize the eight-fold path of Buddhist practice. Each symbol represents an aspect of Buddhist teaching and has its specific meaning and when they appear together, their powers are multiplied. These eight symbols are frequently witnessed symbols of Buddhism. These symbols are a group of lucky Buddhist symbols that appear on many Buddhist textiles, objects, and paintings. In Buddhism, these eight symbols represent the offerings made by the gods to Shakyamuni Buddha immediately after he gained enlightenment. The eight auspicious symbols consists of the following:

1. Parasol or chattri
2. Golden fish or suvarnamatsya
3. Treasure Vase or kalasha
4. Lotus or padma
5. Conch shell or sankha
6. Endless knot or shrivasta
7. Victory banner or dhvaja
8. Dharma Wheel or dharmachakra

 1. The Parasol:

The Parasol known as chhatraratna in Buddhism symbolizes for ‘protection’ and also ‘royalty’. The shade of the parasol symbolizes protection of beings from  illness, harmful forces, obstacles and so forth.

The dome of the umbrella is held aloft by a vertical hand, which is identified with the central axis upholding the world. The umbrella is carried above an important dignitary or the image of a deity, to indicate that the person or symbol below the umbrella is in fact the centre of the universe, and also its spiritual support.

The dome symbolizes wisdom, and the hanging skirt, compassion. Thus the composite form of the parasol signifies the union of these dual elements.

2. The Golden Fish

The next important symbol under the Ashtamangala is the Golden Fish. This symbol consists of two fish, standing in a vertical position with their heads turned inwards, towards each other. It is believed that the symbol of the two golden fish actually belongs to the pre-Buddhist era, where the two fish represented the holy Indian rivers of Ganga and Yamuna respectively.

The golden fish symbolizes the auspiciousness of all living beings in a state of fearlessness, without danger of drowning in the ocean of sufferings, and migrating from place to place freely and spontaneously, just as fish swim freely without fear through water.

 3. The Treasure Vase

The next symbol is the treasure vase or kalasha. In Buddhism, the treasure vase is portrayed as a fat vase with a short, but slim neck. As per Buddhist philosophy, the treasure vase symbolizes an endless rain of long life, wealth and prosperity and all the benefits of this world and liberation. It is said to have a harmonious effect on its surroundings. Therefore, it is a common Buddhist practice to bury similar treasure vases in mountains, water springs, and to place them at altars.

4. The Lotus

The lotus flower symbolizes the complete purification of the defilement of the body, speech and mind, and the full blossoming of wholesome deeds in blissful liberation.

The color of the lotus too has an important bearing.

White Lotus : This represents the state of spiritual perfection and total mental purity. It is associated with the White Tara and proclaims her perfect nature, a quality which is reinforced by the color of her body.

Red Lotus : This signifies the original nature and purity of the heart. It is the lotus of love, compassion, passion and all other qualities of the heart. It is the flower of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion.

Blue Lotus : This is a symbol of the victory of the spirit over the senses, and signifies the wisdom of knowledge. Not surprisingly, it is the preferred flower of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom.

Pink Lotus : This the supreme lotus, generally reserved for the highest deity. Thus naturally it is associated with the Great Buddha himself.

5. The Conch Shell

The fifth symbol is the conch shell or sankha. The conch shell is a much-respected object in the Indian culture. It is said to ward off evil, and is believed to be a symbol of power and authority. The white conch which coils to the right symbolises the deep, far-reaching and melodious sound of the Dharma teachings, which being appropriate to different natures, predispositions and aspirations of disciples, awakens them from the deep slumber of ignorance and urges them to accomplish their own and others’ welfare.

 6. The Endless Knot

The sixth symbol from the ‘Eight Auspicious Symbols’ of Buddhism is the ‘Endless knot’ or shrivasta. If a close inspection of this Buddhist symbol, you will find that it is made up of lines that are intertwined and are all at right angles. This symbol is indicative of the endless wisdom possessed by Lord Buddha and the inter-winding reminds us how all the phenomena are conjoined and yoked together as a closed cycle of cause and effect. It is said that this Buddhist symbol has a Naga inspiration behind it.

 7.  The Victory Banner, Dhwaja

The victory banner was adopted by early Buddhism as an emblem of the Buddha’s enlightenment, heralding the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. The flag of victory also denotes Buddha’s triumph over Mara, who personifies hindrances on the path to spiritual realization. Specifically, there are said to be four types of Maras, each one representing an individual hurdle on the path to spiritual progress. These are:

• The Mara of Emotional Defilement
• Mara of Passion
• Mara of the Fear of Death
• Mara of Pride and Lust

It was only after conquering these four negative traits that Buddha could proclaim victory over ignorance, and achieve nirvana.

Cylindrical victory banners made of beaten copper are traditionally placed at the four corners of monastery and temple roofs. These signify the Buddha’s victorious dharma radiating to the four directions and also his triumph over the four Maras.

 8. The Wheel of Life

Thangka Art- History of Thangka Painting

Thangka, also known as “Pauba” is a Nepalese art form exported to Tibet after Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal, daughter of King Lichchavi, married Songtsan Gampo.  At that time, a number of Buddhist manuscripts, including Prajnaparamita, were copied in Kathmandu Valley for various monasteries. The influence of Nepalese art extended till Tibet and even beyond in China in regular order during the 13^th century. Nepalese artisans were dispatched to the courts of Chinese emperors at their request to perform their workmanship and impart expert knowledge. The exemplary contribution made by the artisans of Nepal, specially by the Nepalese innovator and architect Balbahu, known by his popular name “Arniko” bear testimony to this fact even today. The ruler of Tibet, Songtsan Gampo imported the images of Aryawalokirteshwar and other Nepalese deities to Tibet. Since then, it has been practiced in Tibet for much more than one thousand years.

The history of Thangka actually dates back to 11^th century A.D. once illustration of deities and natural scenes were made.  Thangkas are of two types, the Palas which includes the illustration of deities and the Mandala, which shows the mystic diagrams of complex test prescribed patterns of circles and squares with their own specific significance. Later in 11^th century, the art of Thangka began to take influences of the west when the famous monk and scholar Rinchen Sangpo brought artist from Kashmir. From the fourteenth century, Thangka returned influences of Chinese art, but until then a distinct style had already been solidified in Tibet. Over time various schools of different styles that have emerged so far remains. All are painted in cotton fabric paints with a base of water stained with organic and mineral pigments with gum set.

From 15th century onwards, brighter colors gradually began to appear in Nepalese Thangka. Because of the growing importance of the Tantric cult, various aspects of Shiva and Shakti were painted in conventional poses. Mahakala, Manjushri, Lokeshwara and other deities were equally popular and so were also frequently represented in Thanka / Thangka paintings of later dates. As Tantrism embodies the ideas of esoteric power, magic forces, and a great variety of symbols, strong emphasis is laid on the female element and sexuality in the paintings of that period.

After realizing the great demand for religious icons in Tibet, Nepalese artists, along with monks and traders, took not only the metal sculptures but also a number of Buddhist manuscripts. To better fulfill the ever – increasing demand Nepalese artists initiated a new type of religious painting on cloth that could be easily rolled up and carried along with them. This type of painting became very popular both in Nepal and Tibet. Early Nepalese Thangkas are simple in design and composition. The main deity, a large figure, occupies the central position while surrounded by smaller figures of lesser divinities.

Its origin can be traced all the way back to the time of Lord Buddha. The main themes of Thangka paintings are religious. During the reign of Dharma King Trisong, Duetsen the Tibetan masters refined there already well developed arts through research and studies of different country’s tradition. Thangka painting’s lining and measurement, costumes, implementations and ornaments are all based on Indian style. The drawing of figures is based on Nepalese style and the background sceneries are based on Chinese style. Thus, the Thangka paintings became a unique and distinctive art.

Thangka have developed in the northern Himalayan regions among the Lamas. Besides Lamas, Gurung and Tamang communities are also producing Thangkas, which provide substantial employment opportunities for many people in the hills. Newari Thangkas (Also known as Paubha) has been the hidden art work in Kathmandu valley from 13th century. This art is well preserved and is exclusively created by some particular painter family who has inherited their art from their forefathers. Some of the artistic religious and historical paintings are also done by the Newars of Kathmandu Valley.

To find out about different kinds of Thangkas ans wide collection to beautiful hand-painted Thangka, click here-> Tibetan Thangka Art

Making Of Buddha Statue By Lost Wax Method

Making a metal Buddha statue is a lengthy process which requires great skill and time. Sculpting of a large piece can take up to 6 or even more months and several artisans to work on it for accomplishment. In ancient times, the methods of making statues were kept secret among few families in Patan and Kathmandu. The skill was passed down to generation and was guarded from those outside the family circle.

The making of statue is known as “Lost Wax” method as the original wax model is drained out by heat from the mold and is LOST in that sense.

There are majorly three major steps of casting a sculpture.

1. Sculpturing a wax mould,
2. Sculpturing a clay mould and
3. Metal casting.

Firstly, a core model is made using beeswax exactly how the statue will appear after being ready. For each statue, each core wax model should be made. The thickness of wax model should exactly be as the thickness desired for the metal statue. Tools made from horn of animals are used to design the wax model. The black wax model is made by softening the wax by heating. The artist gives a definite structure and makes a wax model as how it should appear in metal.

After the wax model is ready, in the second stage, it is covered with thin layer of liquefied soil mixed cow dung and then a thick layer inside-out the structure; the latter soil is mixed with rice peel to make it thicker. Then, it is dried in sun for several days. The nails are put through the wax to hold the outer mold away from the core, which stop it from collapsing as the metal run through. Once the wax model is dried completely it is baked in a very hot kiln which melts the wax inside. The melted wax is poured out by making a small hole with a pointed tool. Through same hole the extremely heated and liquefied metal is poured inside. The amount of the required metal can be estimated from the amount of wax used because the liquid metal will replace the beeswax in the mold block. Normally one kilogram of wax is replaced by 100 grams of metal.

The metal takes the shape of the wax inside the soil coat. It is placed in the cold water for cooling. After several days the soil coated is broken by hammer and the rough metal statue is obtained. This entire process is completed in more or less 2 months.

The rough metal statue still needs a lot of work- it needs to be smoothed, trimmed, carved and polished. Sometime there are leftover chunks of metal that need to fill off. The holes from the nails that kept the core separate from the plaster mold during casting may be filled with the same metal as was used for the image- so you can hardly see them. If the metal failed to reach any parts of the image, patches may also now be added on and smoothed over.

Once the rough metal statue is smoothed and polished, it then gets carving and detailing. After that the statue is oxidized, gold plated, painted or antiquated and given a complete finishing.

You can find beautiful Buddha statue made by lost wax method in our Buddhist store. Check out Golden Buddha statue, Antique Buddha statue, Bronze Buddha statue, etc. from our store.

What are the things that you should consider before buying a Buddha statue?

Before buying Buddha statues you should know why you are buying Buddha statue. Basically, the reason should be to achieve inner peace. Selecting different Buddha statues merely depends upon the path to achieving what you desire. Placing a Buddhas statue in home will help us remember, understand and practice Buddha’s teachings. Ultimately by breaking out of never ending cycle of life after death, the state of Nirvana can be achieved by practicing Buddhism with the help of Vipassana meditation. If you want to experience a joy of life, laughing Buddha might be the appropriate one. If you wish to tame your mind with meditation techniques, you might want to buy meditating Buddha statue. You simply love and want to appreciate the artwork they can serve as the proper ambience to your living room or showroom

While buying Buddha statues, one should look for the carvings as hand-carved statues have more detailed artwork and are the best statues found in the market. The carvings depend upon the uniqueness of the artisan’s creativity; the details of hand-carved Buddha statues may be similar but not the same. The unique and beautiful hand-carved Buddha statues are originally and exclusively made in Nepal by the Newari artisans. Their fine artistry and skill are descended down from their ancestors for generations. You have to know where the different types of Buddha statues are originally made. To ensure the genuine statue one should avoid the replica of original art.

Face is the single most important factor to look for while buying one. The finer the face painting of the buddha better the quality of the statue. If you choose to buy golden Buddha the face is primarily painted with 24 k gold by specialist artist. On top of that fine outlining of eyes, nose and tika is done. The overall face should portray compassion, looking at which should invoke respect for Buddha within us naturally.

While you check for carvings and the face, you should be clear on what kind of statue is appropriate for you. There are Golden Buddha, Oxidized Buddha, Antique Buddha, Wooden Buddha, Jade Buddha, Copper Buddha, Bronze Buddha etc.

In the context of Buddhism, empty statue in your house without mantras inside will decrease long life, peace, health and wealth. Whereas filling it with mantras blesses you with good fortunes, peace, prosperity and happiness. Filling it with mantras makes the statue the enlightened one. You should look for possibility to insert the mantras in the statues. Statues specially made in China or India are not designed for filling the mantras inside whereas statues made in Nepal are designed specifically for mantras to be inserted. You can even ask the vendor to bless the statue by a Monk in local Buddhist Monastery when buying.

Check out our Buddhism store for different Buddha statues handmade by Newari artisans with details hand carvings.

Life Of Buddha Thangka

Life of Buddha thangka covers the whole life story of Buddha. Shakyamuni Buddha can be seen in the central, meditating in the earth touching gesture on a lotus throne wearing silk robe. He is flanked by two of his chief disciples namely Sariputra and Maudgalyayana. His face seems very serene and his body emits auras surrounding his body. He is holding an alm bowl with his left hand on the lap. Over the top of his head a parasol is placed, hanging against the background of the Bodhi tree.

On the left corner of the painting, Queen Maya Devi in her palace bed dreams that a white elephant is descending from Tushita heaven and has entered into her womb from her right side. Just below this Queen Maha Maya Devi is standing in the Salbhanjika posture holding a branch of a Plaksa tree and delivering baby Siddhartha from her right armpit. The god Brahma is holding a Bodhisattva dressed in white silk, and is accompanied by two devas. Two celestial fairies carrying flowers are seen welcoming Queen Mahadevi. She is wearing rich garments, befitting a queen. Her face shows no signs of the pain of labour. Just below the painting, baby Siddhartha can be seen making objects. Below this, Prince Siddhartha is shown with his charioteer Chandaka taking a chariot beyond the palace walls. On the journey he observes a man suffering from old age, an emaciated man stricken with an incurable disease, a dead body and yet again an ascetic, or a bhikshu bearing an alms bowl clad in an ocher robe, standing calm, quiet and self – possessed, leading a life of strict discipline, embracing the spiritual path.

Seeing all these characteristic visions formed the basis of Prince Siddhartha’s great renunciation. Yet on another panel just below this Prince Siddhartha, oppressed by the sorrow and tribulation he saw, are his discarded princely garments and the ornaments of royalty, seen near a Stupa. Siddhartha cuts his hair as the initiation of his vow to become a monk. His Charioteer Chandaka and horse Kanthaka can be seen crying at the left side of the painting.

At the bottom panel of the painting the Bodhisattva Siddhartha can be practicing his austerities for six years, his body emaciated like a skeleton. Celestial damsels are seen dancing trying to disturb his meditation. On far right corner of the painting Bodhisattva Siddhartha is seen receiving sweet rice pudding from a lady called Sujata. After taking this food, Siddhartha is seen having attained Perfect enlightenment from his profound meditation under the Bodhi Tree. Devas and human beings are seen offering the eight auspicious symbols after his Perfect Enlightenment. He is seen turning the wheel of dharma for the first time preaching to his five disciples on Four Noble Truths. Just above this Buddha, is seen descended to Sankasya to tame the six heretical teachers after giving a discourse to his mother Maya Devi in the celestial realm. At a certain time during the Buddha’s life, a group of monks called ” Vrijji ” quarreled among themselves, unable to hear the instruction of Lord Buddha. To tame these Vrijji monks, Buddha went to the Parileyyaka forest unattended by monks. Instead, monkeys and elephants attended the Buddha faithfully. At this Vrijji monks realized their mistake and a respectful request to Buddha to return to their abode.

At the top right corner of the painting, Buddha is seen reclining in his death bed attaining his Great Parinirvana. The devotees and devas are seen crying at the death of the Buddha.

Find exquisite and beautiful Life of Buddha thangka painted traditionally painted by the professional thangka painters directly from Nepal. To see the thangka online click here- Buddha Life Thangka

Maitreya Buddha – The Future Buddha

The name Maitreya is derived from the word “Maitri” from ancient Language called Sanskrit. The Sanskrit word “Maitri” means, kindness, love, benevolence, friendship, friendliness, goodwill. Therefore, he is also regarded as the Loving or Friendly One. He is regarded as the protector of the Dharma as well as a teacher who personally initiates his devotees.

Maitreya Buddha is currently a Bodhisattva  one who has vowed not to achieve Nirvana right away even though he has attained certain level of enlightenment. The main purpose of this is to help people on earth in their path to Nirvana and and teach them the teaching of Buddha.

Maitreya, also known as the future Buddha, is believed to be residing in Tushita Heaven waiting for the right time to descend down to the earth. Tushita heaven is one among the thirty-three heavens. It is believed to be existing living place of Maitreya. Followers of Tibetan Buddhism believe that if a person chants the holy enchanting “The Promise of Maitreya Buddha” in front of Rupas of Maitreya Buddha he will be reincarnated in Tushita Heaven.

There is a written statements in ancient Buddhist scriptures like Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana that Maitreya will be the successor to Shakyamuni Buddha. He is referred to as the upcoming future Buddha, predicted to arrive some 2500 years from now.

Some beliefs regarding Maitreya Buddha in Different Places

In Japanese tradition, Maitreya Buddha is considered as the mediator in relationships between men and women.

In Korean Beliefs, Maitreya Buddha is better worshiped as the bestower of children, particularly sons, a protector of sailors.

In Chinese culture, Maitreya is also know as Laughing Buddha or Happy Buddha. He is represented as a jolly, laughing Buddhist monk. He has a big fat belly who carries a hemp bag over his shoulder. He represents happiness, liveliness and prosperity.

Thanks to a Buddhist monk named Chang Dingzi Maitreya Buddha is also known as The Monk with the Cloth Bag. Though dressed only in thin monk’s robes, The Monk could sleep and play on the snow without getting wet or cold. He also had the ability to foresee the future.

The Monk, Yogi was a wise man, who was better known as Pu Tai ‘cloth bag’. He carried the large bundle of cloth wherever he went. He was later worshiped as the incarnation of Maitreya.

Maitreya Buddha Mudra

Maitreya is seated on a lotus that rests on a throne base. He holds his hands before his chest in dharmachakra mudra. Maitreya rupa holds a stem of a lotus flower in between the thumb and forefinger in his left hand. A wheel of Dharma, in sanskrit ” Dharma Chakra” is supported by the bloom of this lotus. Traditional Rupas of Maitreya has him standing, dressed in rich jeweled clothing.

People prefer Maitreya Buddha statues for their home decoration as it represents love, friendship, kindness and goodwill. You can check our Buddhist shop for beautiful Gold plated Maitreya Buddha statue and also antique Maitreya Buddha statue.