This Kadam style chorten is one of the most easily recognized monuments found throughout Asia. This is because it carries great significance to devotees and also to the governments of Buddhist countries. Indeed, there is great symbolism that is inherent in a chorten.
For instance, symbolism of a Kadam style chorten carries significant meaning that is imbued in its shape. The crown represents the Buddha’s head, the chorten uses the shaft below the crown to represent the torso of the Buddha and the square at the base of the shaft represents the Buddha’s crossed legs. During the consecration process the omnipresence of the Buddha is invited into the chorten, creating a sacred sanctuary. Since the Kadam style chorten is portable, it is possible to carry it with you when traveling to holy places. The chorten is then believed to reveal the presence of the Buddha wherever the chorten is located.
A stupa is known by different names depending on the geographical region. In Tibet, a stupa is known as a chorten and it is called a pagoda in East Asia. Additionally, a chaitya can be a prayer hall or a Buddhist temple containing a chorten. Evidence of chortens dates back to the 4th century BCE and they predate the existence of Buddha statues by several centuries.
Our chorten was hand crafted by Nepali artisans based in Patan, Nepal. By using the lost wax method, it is possible to capture intricate details in the framework of the chorten. Please enjoy the intricate designs, symbols and hand carvings that come with this unique item.
