Antique Tibetan Monk Prayer Table Alter Table with Kyung-bur 3D relief work For Sale

Stunning Vintage Tibetan Hand-Painted Ritual Altar Trunk / CabinetUp for your consideration is a beautiful, nineteenth century, highly collectible Tibetan Buddhist Ritual Altar Trunk. This versatile piece functions brilliantly as a low storage chest, blanket trunk, or unique coffee table centerpiece. It features traditional, rich polychrome colors applied using classic Himalayan mineral-pigment techniques. Item measures 33in. x 15in. 18 inches tall.Sacred Iconography & Symbolic Artistry:

• Top Design (The Famous Cheppu Symbol): The center top lid is decorated with a vibrant depiction of Cheppu (the mythical face of protection, often seen over temple doorways to ward off evil and negative energies). Cheppu is shown with his signature fierce expression, clutching a snake, surrounded by flowing clouds and floral scrolls.
• Front Panels (The Sacred Snow Lions): The front face features two mirrored, hand-painted panels showcasing Snow Lions bounding through a dense landscape of clouds and foliage. In Tibetan Buddhism, the Snow Lion symbolizes fearlessness, unconditional cheerfulness, and thevibrant energy of the enlightened mind.

Construction & Technique Note: The chest showcases two distinct authentic periods of craftsmanship. The front and side panels feature exquisite, heavily raised Kyung-bur 3D relief work depicting the traditional Snow Lions. Conversely, the top lid features a flat, flush mineral-pigment rendering of the protective Cheppu / Kirtimukha medallion. This deliberate dual-technique application is highly characteristic of authentic, utilitarian 19th-century Tibetan chests, designed with a flat top surface to safely accommodate altar offering bowls and butter lamps without damaging the artwork."Condition Details:
This piece shows wonderful character with authentic, aged distressing. There is beautiful natural wear to the painted graphics, edges, and wood surfaces, highlighting its vintage charm. Structure is solid and sturdy. (Please review all high-resolution photos carefully to assess condition details before offerding).