A Nepalese Rock Crystal Stupa on a Gilt Bronze Stand

Lot Details & Additional Photographs

19th century, the top a rock crystal stupa with remains of pigments to the surface, it rests on a multi-tiered gilt bronze or copper alloy base with double lotus blossom pedestal over an octagonal base with standing Buddhist figures in relief, a beaded border above and below lined with concentric circles, there are remains of pigments to the base as well, the underside cover is stamped with double vajra to the center.

9 3/4 x 5 x 4 1/2 in.

This stupa is modeled on the design of the Swayambhunath Stupa in the Kathmandu Valley. A small votive stupa like the one on offer here serves as the principal object of veneration on a Buddhist altar. The Newari craftsmen in Nepal exclusively used rock crystal and this serves as an excellent antique example of a sacred item from the Himalayan region.

Rock crystal was secured to base previously with unknown substance, now separate; remains of paint pigments to rock crystal and base; nice patina to upper lotus blossom with some wear and loss; scattered rubbing and wear to base.