As part of its mission, The Dharma Sanctuary has funded an engineering project to create the Tibetan stupa in sculpted marble. This unique construction is a groundbreaking effort and makes the raising of a stupa much easier to accomplish than in the past. In this approach, nine separately carved marble sections are nestled together by crane.
A stupa made of crystalline marble needs little maintenance and is a desirable alternative to the more difficult construction of block or formed concrete covered with a synthetic plaster skin that needs continual resurfacing over time. A stone stupa also has a longevity far beyond one built of concrete.
These stupas and their accompanying metal crowns can be shipped anywhere in the world. Assembly is by crane and can be accomplished in one day, as was done on June 26, 2006 at Lerab Ling, France. All eight of the traditional Tibetan types have been produced. The proportions follow the Tik Sal of Jamgon Kongtrul Lodro Thaye. Not only the eight types have been made, but they are each available in four sizes, the tallest at approximately 15 feet. At this size, all nine blocks that make up the stupa can be fit into a 20 ft shipping container. The four different sizes and their approximate height with crowns are as follows:
Full size = 15 ft
2/3 size = 10
½ size = 7 ft 6 in
1/3 size = 5 ft
For each of the four sizes, gold plated bronze crowns are available.
It is possible to use any type of marble or granite to make the stupas. White Carrera marble has so far been the preferred stone. Stone cladding can also be ordered for the concrete foundation base of the stupa. Stupas larger than 15 ft high can be produced, but are a custom engineering job.
For more information on obtaining these stupas please visit the web site:
