Description
Reverent Santarakshita Statue for Spiritual Serenity
This exquisite Shantarakshita Statue is meticulously handcrafted by skilled Nepali artisans, preserving the rich traditions of Himalayan Buddhist craftsmanship. Standing 12.6 inches (32 cm) in height with an 8.7-inch (22 cm) base and weighing 3.51 kg, this elegant sculpture is expertly crafted from a copper body and beautifully finished with radiant 24K gold gilding and vibrant acrylic painting. Its refined proportions, intricate detailing, and luminous finish make it an exceptional centerpiece for Buddhist altars, meditation spaces, temples, or treasured spiritual collections.
The statue depicts the great Indian Buddhist master Shantarakshita, one of the key figures responsible for establishing Buddhism in Tibet. He is shown seated in the vajra posture (Padmasana) upon a rectangular throne, symbolizing meditative stability and spiritual authority. Unlike a Buddha adorned with celestial ornaments, Shantarakshita is portrayed as an ordained monk wearing layered monastic robes (kasaya), emphasizing his role as a scholar, abbot, and teacher. His serene facial expression, elongated earlobes, and pointed meditation hat reflect the traditional iconography of a revered Buddhist master.
His right hand is raised in the Vitarka Mudra (gesture of teaching and discussion), with the thumb and index finger joined to symbolize the transmission of the Buddha's teachings. The left hand rests in his lap in Dhyana Mudra (gesture of meditation), holding a monk's alms bowl, representing renunciation, discipline, and contemplative practice. The finely engraved robes, gold-gilded surface, and carefully painted facial details highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of Nepali artisans while honoring Shantarakshita's legacy as a philosopher, monastic founder, and one of the principal architects of Tibetan Buddhism.
Size: 12.6”/32cm (Height) x 8.7”/22cm (Base)
Weight: 3.51 kg
Material: 24K Gold Gilded , Acrylic Painting , Copper Body
Santarakshita (8th century CE) was an Indian Buddhist philosopher and abbot of Nalanda Monastery. Invited to Tibet by King Trisong Detsen, he played a pivotal role in establishing Buddhism there, ordaining the first Tibetan monks and founding Samye Monastery. He emphasized the integration of Madhyamaka philosophy with Yogacara epistemology, laying foundational principles for Tibetan Buddhism.