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Lot 79
A PARCEL EMBOSSED COPPER AND LACQUERED STUCCO STUPA
Estimated Value:
1.500 € - 2.500 €
Result:
incl. Premium and VAT
Description:
Tibet, 18th cent.H. 38,3 cm
The square base decorated to all four sides with the Eight Buddhist emblems, supporting the stepped and tiered entrance section to the domed stupa container ornamented with a minute figure of probably Guhyasamaja to the front, surmounted by a simple harmika to continue into the finial consisting of a thirteen tiered parasol topped with the sun and half-moon emblems, sealed
From an old German private collection, acquired between 1970 and 2000
In Tibetan Buddhism, the stupa is considered the most important architectural symbol: it embodies the enlightened spirit of the Buddha and the stages of the path to liberation. The form presented here is based on the classic chorten model, which has been widespread in Tibet since the 15th century. The stepped base symbolizes the earth, the spherical middle section symbolizes water, the rising tower symbolizes fire, the sun symbol above it symbolizes air, and the flame at the top symbolizes the sphere of the spirit. The relief medallions on the dome depict protective deities. The ornamentation on the base, including the endless knot, refers to the “Aṣṭamaṅgala” - the eight symbols of good fortune in Tibetan Buddhism. The traces of gilding and lacquer indicate that the stupa was once part of a monastery inventory and probably served as a reliquary. The inner cavity was often enclosed with relics, sacred texts, or mantras, which significantly increased its sacred value. In the 18th century, Tibet experienced a heyday of religious art, during which both large monumental monastery stupas and portable examples such as this one were produced. These smaller pieces enabled monks and lay people to bring the blessed presence of the Buddha into rituals, processions, or domestic worship - Partly chipped, minor damages due to age
