Vajradhara – The Primordial Buddha
Vajradhara on Throne Statue: Vajradhara is the ultimate primordial Buddha according to the Gelug and Kagyu schools of Tibetan Buddhism, and he is metaphysically equivalent to Samantabhadra in the Nyingma and Sakya traditions. Vajradhara is the Tantric form of Shakyamuni, as Shakyamuni appeared in the aspect of Vajradhara when he delivered the third Wheel of Law and set forth the Tantric path for his gifted disciples. Guru Tilopa is said to have received the Mahamudra instructions directly from Buddha Vajradhara through visions and other extraordinary means. Vajradhara represents the very essence of enlightened mind – achieving the “state of Vajradhara” is synonymous with complete realization. He is revered as both the revealer of mysteries and the mystery itself.
Gestures and Attributes
Buddha Vajradhara is depicted holding a golden Vajra in his right hand and a silver bell in his left like shown in this Vajradhara on Throne Statue. His arms are crossed in front of him expressing the complete integration of prajna (wisdom) and upaya (skillful means). Although he is a Dharmakaya, or primordial, Buddha, he is usually represented iconographically in Sambhogakaya form adorned with beautiful garments, ornaments, and a crown, symbolizing his ability to ceaselessly benefit living beings by means of his emanations which pervade all worlds. It is believed that all the one hundred Buddha families can be condensed into the five Buddha families, which in turn are all held within the compassionate heart of Buddha Vajradhara.
About this Vajradhara on Throne Statue
This enchanting sculpture presents a divine portrayal of Vajradhara seated upon his majestic throne. Crafted with precision from copper alloy and adorned with the opulence of 24-karat gold gilding, every detail of this statue emanates an aura of divine splendor. The hand-painted face adds a touch of lifelike elegance, while the intricate carvings of winding vines and blossoms, expertly rendered using the lost wax method, imbue the sculpture with a sense of ethereal beauty.
From the elaborate five-pointed crown to the delicate adornments of earrings, necklaces, armlets, and anklets, each element showcases the unparalleled artistry of skilled artisans. The handcrafted throne, adorned with carvings of Chhepu – The Mythical Creature, along with enchanting flowers and vines, provides a resplendent backdrop for Vajradhara’s divine presence.
The meticulous attention to detail extends to the incorporation of coral and turquoise stone decorations, adding a vibrant and captivating allure to the sculpture. Created in the sacred city of Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the revered Shakya clan, this masterpiece stands as a testament to their unrivaled skill and dedication. As modern heirs to a centuries-old tradition of sacred artistry, these craftsmen continue to honor their heritage, preserving and perpetuating the fine metalworking techniques passed down through generations. In every exquisite detail of this sculpture, one can discern the legacy of ancient wisdom and the timeless beauty of devotion.
