Aug. 8, 2011: The Marble Pedestal

We are now at the phase of deciding about the marble pedestal that the Buddha will rest on. We have been working with a company in Wisconsin, and have received various quotes for white marble from different parts of the world. It is a lot more expensive than we anticipated!!!  Ironically, buying white marble from China is $20,000 LESS than buying white marble from the U.S.


Here is a nice illustration of the Buddha statue on a white marble pedestal, as envisioned by Lama Dawa Rinpoche and Lama Pema Dorje Rinpoche. According to their aspiration, the pedestal should be made of solid marble, with the tiered layers. In the middle section is a square cut into the stone to place relics and other sacred objects inside. It will weigh almost two tons! To buy the marble, ship it, shape it and install it will cost $49,000. Time for more fundraising!