A BUDDHIST CAST BRONZE RITUAL STAND WITH THE ASHTAMANGALA (EIGHT AUSPICIOUS SYMBOLS)
Tibet, 18th - 19th century

Of rectangular shape, resting on splayed lion paw-shaped feet, the cast bronze stand featuring a different variant of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism (Sanskrit: Ashtamangala, Chinese: 八吉祥, bajixiang) including from the upper left the Swastika (good wishing symbol), the Lotus flower with an Eight-Pointed Star, perhaps referring to the Eight Spoked Wheel, the Vase of Great Treasures, the precious Parasol, the Knot of Eternity (or Endless Knot), the White Conch Shell, the pair of Golden Fish, and a stylised version of the Victory Banner, most likely used in a ceremonial or ritual setting as aniconic altarpiece.

2cm x 10.5cm x 16.5cm