Stupa (Chorten) – Buddhist Ritual Object with Filigree

Stupa with crystal dome. The Buddhist ritual object is worked in filigree, silver-and gold plated, with colored stones. The stupa, Tibetan chorten, represents the enlightened mind of the Buddha and the Dharma. The stupa follows the Swayambhu type, a term derived from Nepal Bhasa and understood to mean ‘self-arisen,‘ like the lotus flower it beauty grows by its own power from the mud. 

The round stupa stands on a double lotus base. Above it rises the dome, anda, made of quartz crystal. Four Buddha votive plaques are placed around the dome, marking the four cardinal directions. A band of red stones emphasizes the transition to the square harmika, which is provided with eyes. Four vajra votive plaques are aligned in correspondence with the Buddha plaques. This is followed by a crystal mast, encircled by winding wire, and a parasol. The uppermost finial is formed by a clear crystal, the jewel. 

The lotus petals of the base are worked in filigree. Thin wire formed into Spirals, are filled with small arched elements and joined into an ornamental pattern. The filigree is accented with colored stones. 

The stupa follows established iconographic conventions of Vajrayana art in the Kathmandu Valley, in which form, symbolic meaning, and ornament are brought together in a balanced composition.

Stupa 

Made of copper and crystal quartz, decorated with filigree, silver- and gold-plated, set with colored stones. The sculpture is patinated. Handmade in Nepal.

• Height: 10" / 26 cm
• Width: 5.5" / 14 cm
• Weight: 1439 g