TIBETAN BUDDHIST WOODEN IDOLS

Tibet has a great history of cultural and traditional art that incorporated religious styles for over two thousand years. The Tibetan Buddhist sculptors and artists were masters at portraying the spiritual culture of Buddhism through their excellency in making fine sculptures made of sturdy wood, specifically teakwood.

The Buddhist followers regard the statue of the Buddha or Bodhisattva as their actual manifestation and thus it becomes the medium for offering their prayers to them.

They engage in regular ritualistic practices and meditate upon these figures to invoke transcendental qualities such as compassion, mercy, tolerance, and wisdom within themselves and to stay determined on the path to enlightenment.

These exquisitely beautiful statues can be seen in various Buddhist Monasteries, temples, and homes because of their great spiritual potency. Today, these traditional Tibetan sculptures have become a refined art style with thousands and lakhs of admirers from across the world.

Some of the common characteristics of Buddha or Bodhisattva figures are the simple monk’s robes, serene and peaceful expressions on the face, elongated ears, and youthful bodies. These figures also showcase different hand gestures known as Mudras that represent various qualities and teachings.

They are often depicted holding different objects that have spiritual significance. The Buddha is shown holding a begging bowl that represents detachment from material comfort or enjoyment. Bodhisattva figures hold various objects such as a Vajra or a lotus flower representing wisdom and purity respectively.

The rich tradition of wood carving in Tibet has been followed for many centuries. The local craftsmen are specialized in this classic art and they continue to exhibit their extraordinary artistic skills.

The brilliantly crafted wooden statues and sculptures that you see on this page have been hand-carved by the skilled artisans of Tibet. Each masterpiece is one of a kind and is perfect for your home altar or living room décor.

Exotic India features this great collection of wooden Buddhist statues that have been made with utmost love, care, and attention and thus will undoubtedly create a spiritual atmosphere wherever you keep them.

You can choose from a plethora of options such as the statue of Thinking Buddha, Blessing Buddha, Relaxing Buddha, Medicine Buddha, Bodhisattvas such as Tara and Manjushri, wrathful deities, and various spiritual paraphernalia.

How much time does it take to create a wooden Buddhist statue?

Since the making of a single wooden Buddhist statue is a complex and elaborate process, the artists usually take from one month to as long as three months to complete it, depending upon its size and detailing.

Where can I place a Buddhist statue at home?

The figure of the Buddha or Bodhisattva is considered very important and reverential in the Buddhist pantheon. Thus it is recommended to place the statue in an elevated position and in a clean environment. You may keep it in your home altar or living room but avoid keeping it in your bedroom or underneath the staircase.

How should I care for a wooden Buddhist statue?

☛ It is always recommended to keep the wooden statues in rooms with little humidity as excess moisture can harm the masterpiece.

☛ Periodically dust off the wooden statue to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away its shine. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

☛ You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood. Instead, apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the statue to bring out its natural shine.