This magnificent Antiquated 1000 Armed Avalokiteshvara Statue has been handcrafted in Patan, Nepal by master Newar Shakya artisans using the traditional lost wax casting method. Cast from copper alloy and finished with a rich antiquated patina accented by hand-applied 24K gold gilded highlights, this remarkable sculpture represents one of the most demanding forms of Buddhist iconography ever produced. The immense aureole surrounding Chenrezig is individually carved with hundreds of radiating arms, each terminating in a hand bearing the all-seeing eye of compassion. Every stage of production—from sculpting the original wax model to chasing the finished metal by hand—follows techniques that have supplied Tibetan monasteries with sacred sculptures for centuries. Each statue is accompanied by a government-issued Certificate of Authenticity from Nepal’s Department of Archaeology, guaranteeing its genuine Himalayan craftsmanship.
Antiquated 1000 Armed Avalokiteshvara ‒ Special Features
The Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara represents the limitless compassion of Chenrezig. Every hand radiating from the aureole is traditionally carved with an eye in its palm, symbolizing the perfect union of wisdom and compassionate action. The five fingers represent the Five Perfections, while the eye embodies transcendent wisdom, illustrating Avalokiteshvara’s ability to perceive suffering everywhere while simultaneously extending compassionate assistance. Learn more about this profound symbolism in our guide to Avalokiteshvara meaning and symbolism.
Above the Bodhisattva rise eleven sacred heads. Nine peaceful manifestations of Avalokiteshvara ascend through the crown, followed by the wrathful protector Vajrapani, whose enlightened power overcomes ignorance and obstacles. At the summit sits Amitabha Buddha, Avalokiteshvara’s spiritual teacher and the Buddha of Infinite Light, completing one of the most recognizable iconographic arrangements in Mahayana and Tibetan Buddhism.
The two principal hands are joined before the heart holding the sacred cintamani wish-fulfilling jewel, symbolizing the awakened mind of compassion that responds to the prayers of all beings. The upper right hand carries the 108 mala beads, signifying Chenrezig’s continual recitation of the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum, while the upper left hand raises the lotus flower, representing the purity of enlightenment that remains untouched by the suffering of samsara. Additional sacred implements held throughout the many arms illustrate the countless skillful means Avalokiteshvara employs to liberate sentient beings.
The sculpture stands upon an elaborate temple-style throne decorated with finely carved snow lions, traditional architectural motifs, and engraved textile drapery cascading down the front of the pedestal. Behind the figure, the immense aureole has been painstakingly hand chased with hundreds of individually sculpted arms, making this one of the most labor-intensive forms produced by Himalayan artisans. The removable rear panel allows the statue to be traditionally filled, blessed, and consecrated, while the fully finished reverse demonstrates the same attention to detail found throughout the front of the sculpture.
Custom Made Buddhist Statues
If you are seeking a larger shrine centerpiece or a unique variation of this extraordinary deity, our master Shakya artisans can create custom made Buddhist statues entirely by hand in Patan, Nepal. We can commission Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara statues in virtually any size, with your choice of antiquated or polished finishes, 24K fire gilding, hand engraving, semi-precious stone settings, and custom lotus or temple thrones. Every custom commission follows the same centuries-old lost wax casting tradition used to create monastery-quality sculptures throughout the Himalayan Buddhist world.
Authentic, Handmade in Nepal
Every statue and ritual item is handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, using traditional lost wax casting and comes with a certificate of authenticity issued by Nepal's Department of Archaeology, verifying its materials, technique, and origin.
