The lotus flower has been a symbol of spiritual purity and enlightenment ever since the time of the Buddha. These wooden lotus flowers are meticulous reproductions of ceiling decorations found in Thai temples. In some temples, lotuses are painted directly on the ceiling. In other temples, they're elaborately carved, covered in gold and placed in the center of ceiling panels. Either way, their purpose is the same -to draw the eye of the worshiper toward heaven. . According to a Zen verse, “may we exist in muddy water with purity, like a lotus." The lotus grows out of the mud, rising upward to bloom in the sunlight, clean and perfect. These lotuses are hand-carved from wood and finished by artisans in Chiang Mai, Thailand, according to ancient designs. Shown here: a large multi-tiered lotus with an antique wood finish.
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Wall-mounted Sculptures