The statue depicted shows Samantabhadra in union with Samantabhadri in the yab-yum depiction typical of Vajrayana Buddhism. Both figures are seated on a round lotus pedestal in relief. Samantabhadra is depicted sitting upright, his legs crossed in a meditation position, while Samantabhadri sits facing him frontally on his lap and embraces him with both arms. The posture is calm and balanced, without dynamic movement.
The contemporary copper statue was made in a traditional workshop in Nepal. It is gold-plated with a distinct patina. Samantabhadri's hair is finely textured and shaped into a high ushnisha; the facial features are calm and symmetrical, with closed or slightly lowered eyes. Samantabhadri is more slenderly modeled, with smoother surfaces and less ornamental elaboration, which emphasizes the formal hierarchy of the depiction.
The lotus base is decorated all around with stylized flower motifs and pearl borders. The proportions of the figures are harmonious, the casting quality is solid, with slightly soft contours, as is typical of craftsmanship from the Himalayan region. Overall, the statue conveys a clearly contemplative character and focuses on symbolism and presence rather than decorative overload.
Dimensions: approx. 19 cm high × 12.7 cm wide × 12.7 cm deep
Weight: approx. 1.7 kg
Samantabhadra, known as the "All-embracing Worthy One", stands for boundless compassion, perfect virtue and the endeavor to lead all sentient beings on the path to enlightenment. In Vajrayana Buddhism, Samantabhadra is worshipped as the urbuddha (Adi-Buddha) - as the embodiment of the Dharmakaya, the truth body of the highest reality. It symbolizes the state of pure awareness beyond all duality and the union of wisdom and emptiness.
Samantabhadra is often depicted in union with his consort Samantabhadri. This form stands for the inseparability of wisdom (prajna) and skillful means (upaya), which together lead to enlightenment.
Samantabhadri, the female counterpart of Samantabhadra, embodies wisdom and the ultimate nature of the mind. Her presence in union with Samantabhadra symbolizes completeness and the non-dual state in which all conceptual divisions are dissolved. Together they embody the perfect balance of compassion and insight and remind practitioners of the path to overcoming dualistic perception.
