Handcrafted thrones in Nepal for Home Altars and Temples
Imagine the makara and kritimukha, positioned at the top of the throne, silently offering their protection, when the throne itself becomes the vessel of wisdom, radiating an aura of ancient strength and enlightenment. There is something deeply special about how a throne complements a Buddhist statue; it is not simply an object but a devoted companion, calmly respecting and sustaining the statue's existence. This spiritual attachment is reflected in Nepalese handcrafted thrones, which enhance the statue's spiritual significance, as if the throne were a good companion, standing beside it in silent reverence.
In this blog, we are going to discuss the purpose, symbolism, types of Buddhist statue thrones, and how to find the right one for your collection. We will help you know materials, craftsmanship, and the best position to place in your home altar or temple.
In the process, we will provide some suggestions on how not to make the most common purchasing mistakes, how to maintain your throne, and when it is really necessary. Being a collector or merely in need of enriching your spiritual space, this guide will equip you with valuable points in order to make an informed decision.
Buddhist Statue Throne: Definition and Purpose
In Nepal, we call the throne an "Asana," which means a seat or place for any divine or non-divine entity to sit. The Sanskrit word for throne is "Torana," which also refers to decorative elements often seen above temple doorways or adorning temple windows, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Let's learn more about them in detail.
What is a Buddhist Throne?
A Buddhist throne is a platform or seat for any statue of buddhist deities to highlight their spiritual significance. It is an important buddhist element, symbolizing the spiritual authority of the deity and the reverence it holds.
In most basic forms, a buddhist throne could be a pedestal or a lotus seat. However, from a broader perspective, a throne is an intricate design surrounded by a decorative arch with side pillars, intricate carvings, and symbolic animals, as depicted in the picture above.
Why are statues not placed directly on shelves or floors?
Just as kings and queens sit on a throne to reflect their dignity and status, in Buddhist traditions, it is considered inauspicious to place Buddhist statues on shelves or the floor, because a Buddhist deity deserves a sacred platform, just as placing kings or queens in a common space diminishes their honor.
At least they should be placed on a basic lotus base for their significance and spiritual status. It is therefore disrespecful for any statues or revered deities to place them on floors because their elevated status does not allow so.
Throne Vs Pedestal Vs Base
| Element | Definition | Role | Symbolism |
| Throne | A symbolic seat of authority and sacred presence for a deity, often decorated with arches and pillars. | Elevates the statue and symbolizes spiritual authority and dignity. | Represents spiritual elevation, authority, and reverence for the seated figure. |
| Pedestal | A support platform that elevates statues or sculptures, primarily for visibility. | Primarily structural, designed to lift and display the artwork. | No inherent symbolism in religious contexts, only for prominence. |
| Lotus Base | A support base shaped like a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. | purity and enlightenment. Elevates the figure while representing purity and transcendence. |
Symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and transcendence in Buddhist and Hindu art. |
Historical Origin of Thrones in Buddhist Iconography
The origin of Toranas and their integration into Tibetan Buddhist Art is insightful and points us towards the limitless transmission of art across borders.
Early Indian influences
Sanchi Stupa Toranas, India
By: rigpawiki.org
A torana is a decorative arch used around a god or religious figure and developed in different regions and periods of Indian art. The early Indian representations differed widely in details, but the general outline of the work was a recessed niche and plain arch over a central figure. The torana evolved as it became more of a part of the base of the sculpture, like the throne or a lotus seat. Toranas were also used in the Kathmandu Valley as decorations to temple doors and windows.
The torana in Indian art usually comprised three elements, including the arch above, side supports, and the base (often a throne or lotus). As time passed, more pillars were introduced to hold up the arch, and Tibetan images eventually overlaid the pillars with a more decorative version. The Tibetans used decorative pillars instead of the plain version that was used in the arch.
Early Tibetan Torana
The earliest type of Tibetan Toranas in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
By: Himalayanart.org
Some of the earliest Tibetan toranas, known as 'throne-backs' (Tibetan: gyab yol), were based on the artistic traditions of India, Kashmir, and Nepal. These also had side pillars that were decorated with animals and birds. The arch might be designed in other styles that include a stylized cave or detailed vine work.
The 12th-century depictions are sometimes accompanied by elephants, sharabhas, makaras, and birds, or by mythological animals such as the garuda, contributing to the innovative and diverse design.
Later Tibetan & Himalayan Buddhist Art
Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhist toranas developed the six-ornament design by the 17th century, often in oval or rectangular shapes; they are usually framed as gates. This composition had many symbolic details: Elephants, Lions or snow lions, a horse, two attendants, a makara, a naga, and finally, a garuda or kritimukha (Cheppu) at the top.
In other cases, a silk canopy was placed over the torana. The torana structure of six ornaments is a unique characteristic of the later Tibetan art, which can be seen with complex symbolism and spiritual protection.
All information above is credited to: Himalayanart.org
Symbolic meaning of the Throne in Buddhism:
In Buddhism, a throne is far more than a simple placement for deities. It is a seat of realization, similar to the teacher's podium or sage's wisdom, which represents a palpable sense of enlightenment and spiritual awakening. Just as a master sits in the front of the classroom, guiding and inspiring, the throne elevates the buddhist master or deity.
The throne is also a separator between the sacred and the ordinary, like a boundary in the doorway of the temple between the divine and the mundane. By lifting the figure above the ground, we are clearly highlighting the sacredness of the deity, fostering a space that invites reverence and focus.
So, positioning a deity on a throne creates a vertical hierarchy where the deity occupies the top position, guiding all beings towards enlightenment, and we also honor the deity by positioning him at the top throne, just like how we raise a flag to honor its symbolism.
Type of Buddhist Thrones:
Buddhism has evolved from generation to generation, so we have a lot of variations in the thrones to accompany the deity.
Lotus Throne:
A lotus throne is a simple throne that we place a deity upon, which is also called
"Padmsana." It is similar to a blooming lotus, just like a lotus mandala.
In Buddhism, lotuses are important symbols as they represent overcoming every obstacle regardless of the circumstances, like how a lotus rises above muddy water. So, lotus thrones are used to highlight the deity's purity and spiritual significance.
Lion Throne:
In Buddhist tradition, lion thrones are one of the most powerful and symbolic seats associated with deities, Buddhas, and bodhisattvas. Lions are revered creatures in many cultures and symbolize courage, strength, and majesty.
When combined with a throne, lions elevate the spiritual stature of the figure they support, imbuing the seat with additional layers of meaning. Shakyamuni Buddha is often depicted on a lion throne due to the lion-like qualities he embodies.
But it is inappropriate for minors and non-teaching deities to have a lion throne, as it suggests a "King of Dharma" Statue they do not hold.
Minimal Pedestal Thrones:
Minimal Pedestal Thrones in Buddhism are a more simplified version of the traditional ornate throne to support buddhist deities and statues, while still maintaining respect and reverence. In this picture, this is Milarepa's throne, and its simplicity mirrors his non-attachment while maintaining respect.
They come in various forms, legless or legged, and focus on a simpler design to elevate a deity rather than decorate it.
But in Buddhist Traditions, deities or masters that deserve a divine or luminous rank, like high tantric deities or celestial buddha, should not be placed upon a simple seat because it fails to represent their honor, although it elevates them.
Six-ornament Thrones:
- Elephants - Representing strength and wisdom
- Lions - representing courage and royalty
- Horse - representing freedom and nobility
- Attendents - representing the transmission of dharma
- Makara - representing protection and guidance
- Garuda - representing loyalty and transcendence of worldly attachment
Having discussed the origins and history of thrones, the different types, and the symbolic value of thrones, let's move on to some of the practical aspects of the matter:
From the selection of a throne, which statues to place on which base, what material to use, craftsmanship, the mistakes that people typically make when buying a throne, the necessity or option of a throne, care and maintenance, and a buying guide with questions frequently asked are also discussed in this section.
If you want to find similar thrones for your statue, please visit evamratna throne collection or termatree.com.
Choosing the Right Throne for your Statue:
Size distribution between Throne and Statue
When choosing the right throne for your statue, consider both size and weight. The throne should be about 1/3 to 1/2 the height of the statue to maintain a balanced presence. If the throne is too tall, then the deity’s stature is overshadowed. If it is too short, the statue may appear unsupported. Also, please ensure the lotus seat of the statue aligns with the throne’s center.
Weight Distribution between Throne and Statue
For heavier statues, such as those made from copper or stone, the throne should have an internal support, like central pillars, to prevent the top from warping over time. So, if you are planning to buy a heavy statue, please ensure that the throne supporting it is durable on the inside.
Shakyamuni Buddha on Six-ornament Throne
You can see that the lotus base of the Buddha statue perfectly aligns with the throne, and the throne is triple the size of the statue, complementing it rather than overshadowing it. If you want a perfect throne and statue combination, it's recommended to use color-matching metals, like gold, on both. If you have an oxidized copper statue, it's better to go with oxidized copper thrones. Also, the six-ornate throne perfectly highlights the significance of the Shakyamuni Buddha.
Matching Throne with Deity Type and Iconography
In Buddhism, the type of throne chosen for a deity or figure often reflects their nature and role. Peaceful deities like Shakyamuni and Green Tara are typically seated on thrones adorned with the Eight Auspicious Symbols or lions, representing calmness and harmony.
On the other hand, wrathful deities such as Mahakala and Vajrayogini, often associated with Tantric practices, are generally not placed on thrones but instead on sun-disc lotus bases, stepping on maras, which are their primary iconographic features.
For gurus and lineage figures like Padmasambhava, thrones often feature more elaborate backrests, such as the Prabhamandala, reflecting their deep teaching lineage and spiritual authority. When it comes to figures like Buddhist masters or Gurus, it is ideal to choose thrones made from durable metals and well-carved designs that symbolize their spiritual stature.
For significant figures like the Buddha or bodhisattvas, a throne with a six-ornament design is highly recommended, symbolizing the fullness of enlightenment. If such a throne is not accessible, a simpler throne adorned with flower and animal motifs can still be an appropriate choice to honor the figure.
Decision Table: Matching Statue to Throne:
| Factors | Recommendations | Additional Notes |
| Size Distribution | The throne should be 1/3 to 1/2 the height of the statue | Ensure the throne complements the statue’s size. Match metal colors (e.g., gold or oxidized copper) |
| Weight Distribution | For heavy statues, ensure internal support, like central pillars, to prevent warping | Durable thrones are essential for heavy statues. |
| Peaceful deities: |
Thrones with Eight Auspicious Symbols or lions. |
Keep the design simple yet symbolic, focusing on harmony and balance. |
| Gurus: |
Thrones with elaborate backrests (e.g., Prabhamandala). |
Durable and well-carved thrones. |
| Wrathful deities: |
Sun-disc lotus bases stepping on their respective iconographic corpses. |
It should represent the power of their fierce energy. |
| Buddha/Bodhisattvas: |
Six-ornament thrones or simple designs with flower and animal motifs. |
Choose a throne where six buddhist animals are present |
Materials & Craftsmanship of the Thrones:
When selecting materials for statue thrones, each option offers unique benefits and challenges:
Wood: This is a cheaper and lightweight material; the wood will also give the room an aesthetic look. Nevertheless, it is vulnerable to cracking during dry seasons and needs constant inspection against pests such as termites.
Copper and Brass: Copper is the standard that is known to be the most durable, soft, and therefore ideal when it comes to intricate engravings; whereas brass is harder and cheaper, though it might contain casting errors. The finishes made of gold plate are highly spiritual, and they do not need extensive care, including dusting. However, acidic oils in fingerprints must not be left to stain gold plating.
Craftsmanship of the Thrones:
Newari Artists
By: globalpressjournal.com
Metal Thrones: Artisans start the process by making a wax model of the throne, moulding it. Wet mud or clay is then used to cover this wax model to make a mold. The mold is heated, making the wax melt and drain out through small holes, leaving a hollow structure behind. The throne is made by pouring molten metal, usually copper or brass, into this hollow mold. The throne is then cooled down, painted, and adorned with detailed patterns.
Wooden Thrones: It involves using good quality of wood. The carving of the throne is done by the artisans working with special tools to make a wooden template of the throne and carve it out. Every detail is crafted to perfection in order to make the completed work both useful and aesthetically pleasing.
Newari Craftmanship:
Newari Artists
By: royalmt.com.np
In Nepal, the majority of the thrones are crafted by skilled Newari artisans, particularly from the Newari community (Sakyas, Tamrakars, and Shilpakars), who specialize in metalworking. Contrary to the perfect works of mass-produced thrones, Handcrafted thrones feel more natural due to the imperfections they possess, which align with buddhist principles.
Care and Maintenance of the Throne:
Cleaning your Buddhist throne is essential for maintaining its spiritual and aesthetic integrity. Here’s how to do it based on the material of the throne:
Metal Thrones (Copper, Brass, Gold-Plated) :
Buddhist Gold-Plated Copper Throne
Dusting: The throne should be gently dusted with a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber cloth to clean the surface. Do not use harsh materials that are likely to scratch the surface.
Polishing: In the case of copper and brass, a metal polish to the same standard should be applied. Use sparingly on a soft cloth and rub it in circular movements. Polishing gold-plated thrones should also be done carefully with a soft cloth, and no harsh chemicals should be used to spoil them.
Cleaning Gold-Plated Thrones: Thrones can be cleaned out by light dusting with a soft cloth. Touching the gold-plated surfaces with bare hands should be avoided, as it may cause the surface to be damaged by oils.
Avoid Chemicals: Do not apply severe chemicals or strong cleaning agents, which will be destructive to the finishing, particularly in delicate gold-plating or in work of great detail in metals.
Wooden Thrones :
Dusting: Dust the throne with a soft and dry cloth. Wet cloths should also not be used because too much moisture can disintegrate the wood with time.
Cleaning Wood: Cleaning with water and mild soap will also do a more thorough cleaning. Moisten a cloth (not wet through) and wipe off the throne. Wipe dry using a damp towel.
Polishing: Use a wood polish or beeswax to keep the wood shiny and prevent it from drying up. Apply a soft cloth and rub in a gentle direction towards the grain of the wood.
Avoid Moisture: Wood is prone to warping or cracking when it is kept in a moist environment; it should not be kept in a humid or hot area.
General Care Tips :
Regular Dusting: Frequent dusting of the throne using a soft dry cloth ensures that dust does not accumulate in the throne and keeps it in its best appearance.
Positioning: The throne should be placed somewhere dry and cool, or it will be damaged by moisture or the hot air.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use of harsh chemicals or abrasive material should be avoided; be it metal or wood since these may result in ruining the surface or finish of the throne.
Handle with Care: Don’t touch the throne with dirty hands, particularly gold-plated or wooden thrones, which can cause oils or dirt to be deposited on the throne.
Common Mistakes Buyer make while buying thrones:
These are the common mistakes we have encountered people frequently make while buying thrones for statues:
Buying the Throne First: Never purchase the throne first if you do not know about the dimensions of your statue that you are going to integrate on the throne. It can cause misalignment.
Ignoring Height: Placing the statue on a tall throne on a high shelf is not recommended, as it makes the statue's face less visible, which hinders the spiritual connection.
Not Matching Deity Type and Throne: The symbolism of the deity and throne should align. For example, integrating a wrathful iconographic throne for peaceful deities undermines the deity's spiritual presence.
Choosing Cheap Machine-Made Over Handcrafted: Initially, mass-produced thrones can be appealing, but they lack the imperfections of a traditional, iconography-rich handcrafted throne, which complement the statue's presence in the long term.
Unnecessary Symbolism of the Throne: Sometimes, thrones are crafted in an excessively flashy or decorative manner, which goes against the deity's typical iconography and symbolism; this diminishes the buddhist deity's honor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I place a statue without a throne?
- Yes, but it should at least be on a clean, elevated cloth (like a khata). Placing it directly on a bare shelf is considered disrespectful.
Are lotus thrones mandatory?
- Most Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are iconographically required to sit on a lotus (symbolizing purity), but the outer throne (the square box/base) is optional.
Can one throne fit multiple statues?
- Only if they belong to the same "set" (e.g., the Three Long-Life Deities, The Three Nyingma Protectors). Otherwise, individual thrones are preferred to respect each deity's unique space.
