ABS 003
Code: ABS 003
Country: Tibet (central)
Style:
Date: 1300 - 1400
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 29.2 x 41.8 x 21.7
Materials: Hammered gilt copper
Thron with backrest
This beautiful two-part ensemble was meant to house a Buddha statue. The lower part of the throne consists of three levels which are decorated with floral patterns. These are inlaid with turquoise and coral according to Tibetan preference. In the middle, plants emerge from a vase. The throne is supported by two atlases and two lions, suggesting that it must have been the seat of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni.
The backrest is decorated with a series of animals and fantastic creatures arranged one above the other. The two elephants each support a mythical beast called shardula, and above them two makaras roll their plant-like tails in inward spirals. At the top, the Garuda bird spreads its wings. The whole is surrounded by a flamed border, and a mandorla can be seen at head level of the statue. This type of symbolism is typical for Buddha thrones. The artistic execution of this example shows great refinement.
This beautiful two-part ensemble was meant to house a Buddha statue. The lower part of the throne consists of three levels which are decorated with floral patterns. These are inlaid with turquoise and coral according to Tibetan preference. In the middle, plants emerge from a vase. The throne is supported by two atlases and two lions, suggesting that it must have been the seat of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni.
The backrest is decorated with a series of animals and fantastic creatures arranged one above the other. The two elephants each support a mythical beast called shardula, and above them two makaras roll their plant-like tails in inward spirals. At the top, the Garuda bird spreads its wings. The whole is surrounded by a flamed border, and a mandorla can be seen at head level of the statue. This type of symbolism is typical for Buddha thrones. The artistic execution of this example shows great refinement.