MANDALAY, Myanmar - Local artisans undertake the dusty and backbreaking work of carving statues of the Buddha out of marble. With Buddhism being the dominant religion in Myanmar, there is considerable demand for the statues, with clients able to choose from a myriad of poses, sizes, and styles. The artisans are clustered on a street in the Chanmyathazi neighborhood of Mandalay near the Mahamuni Pagoda.
Image details
Contributor:
David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
F97T18File size:
85.9 MB (1.3 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
6706 x 4476 px | 56.8 x 37.9 cm | 22.4 x 14.9 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
3 October 2015Location:
Chanmyathazi, Mandalay, Mandalay Region, Myanmar (Burma)More information:
The Buddha statue carving workshops in the Chanmyathazi neighborhood of Mandalay, Myanmar, are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship deeply embedded in the Burmese culture. Here, artisans dedicate their lives to carving intricate Buddha statues, a significant component of the Buddhist religious arts tradition in Myanmar. The process of carving these statues is meticulous and demands a high level of skill. Artisans begin with a raw block of stone and gradually shape it into the serene image of Buddha, often incorporating traditional motifs and designs into the final piece. The completed statues vary in size, from small tabletop pieces to large sculptures intended for temples and religious sites. The Chanmyathazi neighborhood has become known for these workshops, and many visitors make a point of witnessing the artisans at work. The sight of craftsmen engrossed in their work, the sound of chisels against stone, and the dust-filled air create an atmosphere that is both tranquil and vibrant, reflecting the Buddhist philosophy that permeates Myanmar society. Buddhism is the predominant religion in Myanmar, and the Buddha statue carving workshops are a visible manifestation of this faith. They play a crucial role in providing religious items for both local consumption and export. The statues carved in these workshops can be found in homes, temples, and monasteries throughout Myanmar and beyond. The Buddha statue carving workshops in Mandalay's Chanmyathazi neighborhood offer an authentic glimpse into Myanmar's Buddhist culture and arts tradition. They stand as a testimony to the country's rich cultural heritage and the skilled craftsmanship of its people.