These solid, heavy statues feature the likeness of the impressive Fasting Buddha, also known as the Buddha of Lahore. They refer to the historical Buddha, Siddhartha, during his six year period of intense fasting and meditation to gain enlightenment. His body withered away to a gaunt existence. Its said he only consumed a single grain of rice per day. Later, Siddhartha excepted nourishment in an extreme weakened statue. This allowed him to regain his strength and renew his meditation with more fervor, which ultimately led to his enlightenment and adoption of a path of moderation, or middle way. The original is a masterpiece from the 2nd or 3rd Century in the Gandhara style, excavated in modern day Pakistan. It now resides in the Museum of Lahore. One of the earliest curators of the museum was Rudyard Kiplings's father, John Lockwood Kipling. Rudyard drew inspiration from the area for his novel Kim. The Gandhara era was a unique intersection of Buddhist and Hellenistic styles, referred to as Greco-Buddhism. When Alexander the Great conquered the area in 327 BC, he introduced aspects of Greek culture into the area, and indeed some his army stayed in the area and melded with local culture. This style is a melding of realistic Greek/Roman techniques and Buddhist iconography. Until then, Buddhist art lacked the realism we see here (though over the top) exemplified in this statue: visible ribs and other bones, exposed veins, and distinct neck sinew among other details. We are proud to bring these intricate replicas to market in your choice of size, color, and material. The resin versions are heavy, sold cast statues with fine details befitting this popular Buddha depiction. The brass versions are also heavy, but hollow cast.
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