This brass Buddha figure is just 34 mm tall and about 2 cm wide, and it weighs 17 g. Smaller than a matchbox, it fits where a larger statue never would. Made in India.
The Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, is traditionally said to have lived in northern India around the 5th century BC, and he taught there. So this little figure comes from the country where the teaching began.
Where a small Buddha can go
Almost anywhere. It looks at home beside a tealight on an altar, on the corner of a desk, in front of a row of books or at the foot of a pot plant. If you are giving it as a present, it fits in a small box or alongside a greeting card. It travels easily in a wash bag too. Because it is so small, keep it away from young children, who could swallow it.
An old rule of respect
Followers of Buddhist tradition hold that a Buddha statue should stand somewhere clean and raised above the floor, and never in a bathroom. Many place it at eye level or higher, traditionally with a flower, a candle or incense beside it. If this matters to you, a wall shelf or the top of a bookcase is a good spot.
Brass darkens with time
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. In the air it slowly turns darker and more matt, which many people like. If you prefer it bright, rub it with a soft cloth and a little brass polish. Otherwise an occasional dusting is all it needs. Avoid handling it for long with wet or creamy hands, as that can leave marks on the metal.