He first tried asceticism. Since he believed his disillusionment to stem from the cravings of his body, his instinctive reaction was to negate it totally, even to the extent that for six years, he practised a way of discipline based on progressively severe fasting. He thus ate only a single grain of rice for each of the first two years, drank a single drop of water for each of the second two years, and took nothing at all during the last two. Consequently, his bones stuck out like a row of spindles, and when he touched his caved-in stomach, he could almost feel the spine. His skin became withered. But all this was in vain. However severe his austerities, perhaps even because of them, the body still clamoured for attention, and he was still plagued by lust and craving. In fact, he seemed more conscious of himself than ever. Finally, Buddha had to face the fact that asceticism had failed to redeem him. All he had achieved after this heroic assault upon his body was a prominent rib cage, and a dangerously weakened physique.
Finally, it dawned upon the Buddha that physical austerity is one of the two extremes, and that the 'Middle Way' between the two opposite poles is the true path to enlightenment.
With puffed-in cheeks, the unshaved unkempt Buddha here presents an extreme picture of asceticism. The skilled fingers of Shri Ram Chandra Gaur are evident in the depressed neck and shoulders of the Buddha (fanning out like a collar), the vertical bone column of the neck and the prominent rib cage, all of which indicate an intimate knowledge of the human anatomy. At the middle of the forehead can be seen two swollen blood vessels, which along with the deep eye sockets contribute to the overall melancholy of the composition.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist