The 20.25″ 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara statue is created in a mixed combination finish of 24K gold gilding and oxidized copper. As a result, the statue depicts a most beautifully contrasted embodiment of the venerable Bodhisattva: gold-tipped lotus petals, beaded borders, and jewelry glow against the deep, shadowed copper of the body and aureole, while a dozen raised gold bosses stud the cloud-engraved border of the frame. Additionally, there is a most interesting story that illuminates how this portrayal came to be. Due to overwhelming compassion, Avalokiteshvara exploded into thousands of pieces.
Apparently, the immense pressure of his vow to rescue all sentient life from suffering was too much to handle. Fortunately, Amitabha Buddha put Avalokiteshvara back together again. However, he gave Avalokiteshvara 1000 arms and 11 heads to better observe and ultimately relieve the suffering of all sentient life. To understand the meaning behind the eleven heads and thousand arms, see our guide to Avalokiteshvara meaning and symbolism.
Special Features of 1000 Armed Avalokiteshvara
The unique form of our 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara statue displays an eye on the palm of each hand. As a result, each of the five method perfections (fingers) is joined with the sixth perfection of wisdom (eye). Additionally, Avalokiteshvara was given 11 heads, with the head of Amitabha Buddha on the top; the penultimate head is that of Vajrapani. Seen from behind, the crest above the heads and the curling ribbon tails at his hips are backed in red, and the gold trim of his robe and crowns continues fully in the round.
His two main hands are pressed in front of his chest to show respect for Amitabha Buddha, holding the cintamani jewel between the palms. This special jewel is believed to grant faithful devotees whatever they wish for.
Other notable aspects include what he is holding in his upper right hand: the 108 mala beads. The crystal mala beads help him keep track of the constant recitation of the Avalokiteshvara mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. Additionally, he holds the lotus flower over his left shoulder — an important symbol of enlightenment that encourages devotees to rise above the sea of suffering. Below, the figure stands on a lotus pedestal with gold-tipped petals above a stepped plinth, where small guardian faces flank a gold-trimmed carved drape between beaded gold courses. Browse the complete Bodhisattva statues collection to compare this contrasted finish with our fully gilded forms.
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.
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