H x W x D: 66.6 x 24.8 x 28.1 cm (26 1/4 x 9 3/4 x 11 1/16 in)
Type:
Ceremonial Object
Origin:
China
Date:
mid- to late 18th century
Period:
Qing dynasty, Qianlong reign
Description:
A cloisonne stupa with hollow, uncovered, tiered base; rising from the swelling body of the stupa is a tall spire consisting of thirteen rings telescoping in size from large to small in an upward direction, and surmounted by a gilt, gourd-shaped ornamen. A gilt metal staircase leads to the the main body of the stupa that houses within an empty, lotus-decorated enamel throne within a small opening. A gilt bat frames the top of the opening and gilt lion-head ornaments appear at the sides of the stupa. A lotus scroll pattern interspersed with the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism decorates the surface. The background color of the cloisonne is turquoise with many other colors used in the design; some cells have two or more colors.
Collection:
Freer Gallery of Art Collection
Exhibition History:
Looking Out, Looking In: Art in Late Imperial China (October 14, 2017 - ongoing)
Encountering the Buddha: Art and Practice Across Asia (October 14, 2017 to February 6, 2022)
Lama, Patron, Artist: The Great Situ Panchen (March 13 to July 18, 2010)
