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Bronze
18th Century

Nepal

Height: 8.5 in (21.6 cm)


This is a very beautifully cast bronze Nepalese Chaitya or Stupa which represents the Buddhist Universe, or Buddhist sanctuary. It is sometimes square and at times, round, with steps, ultimately leading to the spire at the top. The Chaitya stands on the back of four, winged mythical lions at its four corners, looking upwards in a majestic manner with horns above their heads, like unicorns. Their mouths are open making them look ferocious.

The steps above them lead to an upturned lotus, above which sit four Dhyani Buddhas each facing a different direction. The uppermost portion is representing the highest peak Mount Sumeru, a mythical mountain. The place of Vairochana is in the centre. It is a very finely cast Chaitya, an object of importance and veneration for Buddhists.

The sculpture is three dimensional, well cast and would make a great table top art object due to its convenient size. Its composition, shape and subject bestow it with a serene aura.

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