The abhayamudra is a recurring element in Hindu and Buddhist iconography. Both schools of Indian philosophy uphold the supremacy of vidya (awareness) over avidya (ignorance) and dharma (ethical behaviour) over adharma (unethical). The idea is to dispel the latter that give cause for bhaya (fear) and realise the resplendence of the intransient atma (soul). The Buddha that you see on this page raises His right hand in the stance (‘mudra’) of fearlessness (‘abhaya’): the hand raised at shoulder-level, palm exposed, fingers and thumb outstretched.
It is a seated Buddha composition that is in many respects unlike run-of-the-mill murtis of the kind. The legs are in ardha-padmasana (one foreleg poised over the other) as opposed to the poorna-padmasana (forelegs interlocked). The left hand rests gently upon the knee of the left leg, which is on top, instead of cradling an almsbowl in the lap. The bare-bodied ascetic, but for the gold-coloured dhoti whose hems are wrapped around the knees, wears an ornate necklace and a janeu of gold across His torso. Gigantic karnakundalas and a luxuriantly engraved five-spired crown frame His face, indicative of His cosmic glamour. Note how the gold complements the green overtones of His naked complexion.
An expression of quiet contemplation marks the face of the erstwhile Shakyamuni. He is hurtling into samadhi, the fingers of the other hand about to reach down (‘sparsha’) to the earth (‘bhoomi’) any moment now.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist