Antique Thai Reliquary Nirvana Chedi For Sale

Antique Thai Reliquary Nirvana Chedi.A finely carved and turned teak wood stupa form, constructed as a reliquary box in the nirvana (parinirvana) stupa shape. This form is composed of a bell shaped dome on a tall tiered base. The finial spire has a square base topped by a stem and multiple rings in a cone form with a lotus bud extension and a globular tip. The box lid joins the base at the underside of the bell form with a large carved out receptacle in the interior of the base. Red and black lacquered overall with gold leaf on the upper portion. The parinirvana stupa form is symbolic of the death of the Buddha at 80 ending his suffering and the cycle of rebirth and the absorption into a higher state of consciousness. Stupa form reliquaries were historically made to enshrine relics (remnants) of the Buddha or revered acolytes, disciples, teachers, texts and sacred objects. Often reliquaries such as this are devotional objects given to local temples to enshrine or held in or displayed in a home altar.Early 20th century.Signs of wear and use otherwise fine.7.375 in. high x 2.6875 in. in diameter ( 18.8 x 6.9cm)2.9 oz. (84g.)
Provenance:Thai art marketL’Asie Exotique, Palm Springs, CA