Miniature temple-shaped altar
  See it in the Museum
Chapel
Orientation 3
Display 6

ABR 036

 Code: ABR 036

  Country: Tibet

  Style:

  Date: 1300 - 1400

  Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 20.5 x 17.7 x 11

  Materials: Wood

Miniatur tempel-shaped altar

This miniature wooden altar reproduces the shape of a temple with a Chinese roof of glazed tiles. Inside, bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara is depicted in gold in the centre, accompanied by his two companions Manidhara and Shadakshari.
The left wall features the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, and the right Bhaishajyaguru, Medecine Buddha and master of remedies. The exterior shows five dancing goddesses with offerings suspended above them. Small indentations on the front of the temple indicate the missing doors, on which further figures would have been depicted, as the traditional series consists of eight goddesses or other representations. Two metal rods with eyelets enclose the sides. This altar was certainly meant to house a small statue of a master or deity.