Stupa of Reconciliation (dge 'dun gyi dbyen bsdum... Lot 41

Stupa of Reconciliation (dge 'dun gyi dbyen bsdum mchod rten) Tibet, ca. 18th century Gilt copper alloy and silver. H. 30 cm This stupa follows the classical Tibetan structure with a square pedestal supporting four octagonal levels of decreasing dimensions on which rests the dome, anda or bumpa, surmounted by the harmika of square section of the thirteen circular degrees, and the parasol surmounted in turn by the moon, the sun and a jewel. A window on the bumpa houses a small image of Buddha in meditation. The surface is embellished with ornamental silver motifs and turquoise inlays. The base is sealed. This form of stupa with four octagonal steps is intended to commemorate the reconciliation of the Buddhist community after Devadatta attempted to create a schism by founding another community separate from the Buddha. Provenance: - Former L. Solomon Collection