Ksitigarbha - Buddha Statue - Hand Painted - Milo

Ksitigarbha – Buddha Bronze Figure – hand painted – Signed Milo

This hand-painted bronze figure of Ksitigarbha by Miguel Fernando Lopez, known as Milo, presents a serene yet commanding seated Buddha figure whose calm posture and focused expression radiate inner balance. The richly detailed robes flow in soft, layered folds, emphasizing stillness and quiet power. The figure’s upright stance, combined with its meditative gaze, suggests unwavering spiritual intention, creating a visual impression of protection and guidance. Each detail of the hands, staff and seated lotus base strengthens the theme of contemplation and responsibility. The result is a dignified sculpture that captures Ksitigarbha’s symbolic association with benevolence and spiritual guardianship.

Historic Foundations of the Motif

Ksitigarbha occupies a significant place in Buddhist tradition, often connected to compassion, guardianship and the vow to guide beings through suffering. His depiction with a monk’s robe and staff conveys guidance and vigilance, themes that have resonated for centuries across East Asia. The sculpture’s golden tones and red accents reference traditional ceremonial colors associated with devotion and reverence. These elements mirror historic representations found in temples in China, Japan and Korea, where Ksitigarbha is venerated as a symbol of protection for travelers and vulnerable souls. The iconography allows the sculpture to connect with a long cultural lineage, giving the piece an enduring conceptual foundation.

The Signature Hand of Milo

Born in Lisbon in 1955, Miguel Fernando Lopez grew up in a family that encouraged creative pursuits, fostering his fascination for form, movement and symbolism from an early age. His formal education in sculpture began during his teenage years, later leading him to work with bronze and mixed media in professional studios. Over the decades, Milo has become known for combining classical references with contemporary craftsmanship, achieving expressive surfaces and dynamic silhouettes. His works often explore the relationship between serenity and strength, which is clearly reflected in this seated figure. The signature “Milo” confirms the sculptural authenticity and his personal involvement in its creation.

The Creation and Limited Character of the Statue

This bronze figure was conceived and cast in a professional foundry environment, following traditional lost-wax techniques that allow precise surface textures and dimensional clarity. The hand-painted accents underline the individuality of each piece, making no two surfaces entirely identical. The intentional coloration highlights key symbolic features such as the crown, robe patterns and lotus base, offering a refined visual contrast. The sculpture’s composition suggests a creation rooted in respect for cultural heritage. Its collectible status reflects Milo’s established reputation among bronze sculpture collectors.

Material, Form and Visual Impact

The bronze body of the figure provides weight, permanence and a tactile surface that shifts subtly in different lighting conditions. The staff extends vertically, guiding the viewer’s gaze and emphasizing spiritual alignment and grounded presence. The lotus base provides a symbolic foundation of purity and awakening, elevating the overall composition with both physical and thematic stability. The sculpted facial features convey calm determination, further reinforcing the statue’s atmosphere of inner strength. This interplay of structure, expression and material creates a sculpture that feels both intimate and monumental.

Where the Figure Finds Its Place Today

Works by Milo, including representations connected to Buddhist themes, can be found in private collections, galleries and curated exhibitions across Europe, North America and parts of Asia. Collectors often place such figures in meditation rooms, reception spaces or cultural settings where reflection is encouraged. The sculpture’s refined presence allows it to serve as a focal point in both modern and traditional interiors. Due to its contemplative character, it is also suited to spaces dedicated to quiet study or personal retreat. Its visual stability gives it a timeless presence in contemporary environments.

The Life Behind the Work

Milo’s childhood in Portugal included exposure to crafts through his parents, who valued manual skill and creative curiosity. Over time, he developed a disciplined approach to sculptural design, studying anatomy, cultural symbolism and technical metalworking. His professional career expanded through international collaborations, allowing him to observe diverse cultural expressions and spiritual motifs, many of which influenced his later works. Today, Milo continues to explore themes of harmony, resilience and human reflection in his sculptures. This figure stands as an example of his commitment to sculptural depth and emotional resonance.