Historical information

The Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, the largest Buddha carved from gemstone-quality jade in the world, is the centerpiece of the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo, Australia. Standing 2.5 meters tall and weighing 4 tonnes, this priceless Buddhist statue toured over 120 cities across 20 countries from 2009 to 2018, inspiring peace in families, schools, and communities worldwide. After attracting an estimated 12 million visitors, it returned to the Great Stupa in May 2018, where it continues to be a potent symbol of peace.

Significance

This framed artwork, created on perforated paper and adorned with traditional calligraphy and red ink stamps, was presented to Ian Green by Thich Giac Thien in April 2009 at Chau Tu Quang in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The central calligraphic character signifies “Buddha,” encapsulating a message of spiritual reverence and cultural artistry.
Presented during the Jade Buddha for Universal Peace tour, the piece symbolises harmony between visual expression and Buddhist philosophy. As one of the earliest contributions to the tour’s growing cultural legacy, it reflects the unity of faith, art, and international goodwill that defined the Jade Buddha’s global journey.