Amitayus; Tsepame; Buddha of Infinite Life
---This exquisite 25cm / 9.8" Amitayus statue represents the refined artistry of Nepalese master craftsmanship—a skillfully hand-carved pure copper masterwork featuring complete 24k gold-gilding and a meticulously carved double lotus throne.
· Height: 25 cm / 9.8 inches
· Material: Pure copper with complete 24k gold-gilding
· Style: Amitayus in full vajra posture with longevity vase, double lotus throne
· Origin: Hand-carved masterwork from Nepal, Kathmandu Valley
· Ideal for: Meditation space, home altar, long-life practice, healing practice, spiritual art collection
Amitayus, known in Tibetan as Tsepame, is the Buddha of Limitless Life and one of the three principal long-life deities in Buddhist tradition, together with White Tara and Ushnishavijaya. He is the sambhogakaya (enjoyment body) manifestation of Amitabha, embodying the quality of boundless life and longevity. He is venerated for his power to remove obstacles to long life, heal sickness, and bring about physical and spiritual well-being.
Seated in full vajra posture (padmasana) upon a magnificent double lotus throne, his hands rest in his lap in dhyana mudra (the gesture of meditation), holding the longevity vase (kalasha) filled with amrita—the nectar of immortality. The vase is traditionally adorned with leaves, symbolizing a long life without the misery of disease.
The double lotus throne beneath him features two layers of individually carved petals—each petal precisely shaped, their tips slightly curled, creating a throne of sacred beauty. The upper layer of petals faces upward, representing liberation, while the lower layer faces downward, symbolizing compassion descending to benefit all beings.
His serene expression embodies the perfect peace of enlightened longevity—downcast eyes that gaze upon all beings with compassionate awareness, a gentle smile radiating the warmth of boundless life. The three eyes (including the wisdom eye in his forehead) perceive all suffering and respond with the blessing of extended life.
The complete 24k gold-gilding adds radiant luminosity to the entire sculpture. Multiple layers of pure gold are carefully applied using traditional mercury-gilding techniques, creating a warm, glowing surface that catches light and draws the eye to Amitayus's serene presence. This full gold finish ensures the deity shines with consistent splendor from every angle.
Every element of this hand-carved masterwork reflects dedicated artistry. The elaborate five-jewel crown adorning his head represents the five wisdoms, each jewel rendered with crisp definition. Long silk ribbons cascade from his crown, their delicate folds carved with precision. Long earrings graze his shoulders, symbolizing his balanced awareness of all realms. Elaborate jewelry adorns his form: necklaces, armlets, bracelets, and anklets—all rendered with meticulous attention. Celestial silks drape gracefully over his shoulders, their flowing folds demonstrating mastery of classical techniques.
The longevity vase in his hands is carved with exceptional detail, its rounded form and decorative elements rendered with precision. His hair is arranged in a high topknot with braids falling to his shoulders, following traditional iconographic conventions.
According to traditional sources, Amitayus holds a uniquely important position in Buddhist practice as the primary deity for long-life rituals and practices. His mantra—"Om Amara Ni Jiwanti Ye Svaha"—is recited for longevity, healing, and the removal of obstacles to a full and beneficial life. It is said that reciting his name can increase one's lifespan and bring about healing of sicknesses and imbalances in the body.
The ancient technique used in crafting this piece follows time-honored methods preserved in the Kathmandu Valley for centuries. The lost-wax process, detailed hand-chasing, and careful application of gold-gilding have been executed with skill by an experienced artisan.
For more than a millennium, the Kathmandu Valley has nurtured a living lineage of metal sculptors who have preserved the traditions of ancient lost-wax creation. This 25cm Amitayus masterwork represents that living heritage—a timeless expression of the Buddha of Limitless Life whose blessings extend to all who seek his compassionate grace.
