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Large Antique Laos Style Enlightenment Buddha Statue - 61cm/24"
Measures - (Height) 61cm/24"
A seated bronze antique Laos style Buddha Shakyamuni.
In the serene landscapes of Laos, amidst ancient temples and tranquil monasteries, one can encounter a captivating symbol of enlightenment and compassion—the Bhumisparsa Buddha. This iconic representation of the Buddha, often depicted in a unique posture, holds deep spiritual significance within Laotian Buddhism.
The Bhumisparsa Buddha is characterized by a specific hand gesture known as the Bhumisparsa mudra, also known as the 'earth-touching', 'enlightenment' or 'earth-witness' mudra. In this gesture, the Buddha is depicted sitting cross-legged with his right hand touching the earth, while the left hand rests on his lap. This gesture is symbolic of the Buddha's enlightenment and his triumph over the temptations and distractions of Mara, the demon of desire.
The significance of the Bhumisparsa mudra lies in its association with the pivotal moment in the Buddha's life known as the Great Enlightenment. According to Buddhist tradition, Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment while meditating under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. As Mara attempted to dissuade him from his quest for enlightenment, Siddhartha remained steadfast, touching the earth to bear witness to his unwavering resolve.
The imagery of the Bhumisparsa Buddha embodies profound symbolism within Laotian Buddhist tradition. The act of touching the earth symbolizes the Buddha's connection to the natural world and his realization of the interdependence and interconnectedness of all beings. It represents a moment of profound awakening and enlightenment, where the Buddha transcends the cycle of suffering and attains ultimate liberation.
The Bhumisparsa Buddha exemplifies the qualities of compassion and wisdom that lie at the heart of Buddhist teachings. By touching the earth, the Buddha demonstrates his commitment to alleviating the suffering of all sentient beings and guiding them towards the path of liberation. The gesture serves as a reminder of the Buddha's universal compassion and his teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
In Laotian Buddhist culture, the Bhumisparsa Buddha is revered as a symbol of enlightenment and spiritual awakening. Devotees often pay homage to the Bhumisparsa Buddha through offerings, prayers, and meditation, seeking blessings for inner peace, wisdom, and liberation from suffering. The imagery of the Bhumisparsa Buddha inspires reverence and devotion among believers, serving as a focal point for contemplation and spiritual practice.
The Buddha is seated on a large lotus flower pedestal. The lotus flower represents the attaining of enlightenment and the ultimate fulfilment that follows. This symbol is heavily used in Eastern religions, which is why it can appear as both a held item or a seat. Some say that as the lotus flower grows in dirty water but becomes something beautiful, it demonstrates how we must forget our attachments to the material world around us and focus on our inner spirituality in order to seek happiness.
The Buddha has a peaceful countenance with downcast introspective eyes and a firm brow. He has a large lotus flower shaped ushnisha protuberance on top of his head, symbolizing his high level of spiritual development. His earlobes are stretched long from a youth spent as a prince wearing heavy gold earrings.
The casting is beautiful as you can see in the fine details of the fingers and toes. Each detail is rendered perfectly. The distinctive patina of the piece is also particularly delightful.
The Bhumisparsa Buddha stands as a luminous beacon of enlightenment and compassion within Laotian Buddhist tradition. Through its profound symbolism and spiritual significance, it serves as a guiding light for practitioners on the path to liberation and awakening.
As we contemplate the imagery of the Bhumisparsa Buddha, may we be inspired to cultivate compassion, wisdom, and inner peace in our own lives, following in the footsteps of the awakened one.
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