Stupa (Chorten) – Buddhist Ritual Object with Filigree

A stupa, Tibetan chorten, is a central symbol of Buddhist art and stands for the enlightened mind of the Buddha and his teaching (Dharma). 

The stupa stands on a square base, stepped with a slight overhang. The uppermost terrace is accented with four dzi beads as well as lapis lazuli stones at the four corners. This is followed by a band of set turquoise stones. Above the base rises a multi-tiered, rounded crystal element, decorated with arched motifs and accented with colored stones. The sequence of circular and angular forms defines the clear structure of the stupa. 

The lowest tier is adorned with turquoise and coral in abstracted vajra motifs. The recessed surfaces carry filigree work with floral motifs. Fine wires are laid into spiral forms, filled with small arched elements, and joined into a pattern. Colored stones enliven the filigree structures. 

The stupa is regarded as an architectural representation of the cosmic principle and follows the image traditions of Vajrayana in the Kathmandu Valley, in which ritual identity, gesture, and ornament are brought together into a carefully balanced iconographic unity.

Stupa, Chorten

Copper base, decorated with filigree, silver- and gold-plated, set with turquoise, coral and lapis lazuli. Chaitya made of crystal. The sculpture is patinated. Handmade in Nepal.

• Height: 27 cm
• Width: 17.5 cm
• Depth: 17.5 cm
• Weight: 1,675 g