Stupa of enlightenment (byang chub mchod rten)... Lot 42

Stupa of enlightenment (byang chub mchod rten) Tibet, ca. 18th century Gilt copper alloy and silver. H. 31 cm This stupa follows the classical Tibetan structure with a square pedestal supporting four square 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 Buddha image. The surface is decorated with ornamental silver motifs and turquoise inlays. The four sides of the pedestal each have two depictions of snow lions, and those on the main side are arranged on either side of a depiction of Vaishravana, the guardian of the north, which may be an indication of the arrangement within the original set of eight stupas. The base is sealed. This form of stupa with four square steps is intended to commemorate the enlightenment of the Buddha. Provenance: - Former L. Solomon Collection