Wooden Book Cover with Gilding
Place of ManufactureAsia
MediumMaterial: wood; gold
DimensionsOverall: 29.2 x 74.5 x 4 cm
ClassificationsDECORATIVE ART
Credit LineGift of Mrs. H.R. Gale
Object number1967.219.002
DescriptionThis elaborately carved book cover shows the great esteem held by the Tibetans for their sacred scriptures. This book cover has a petal design framing a scene of three large Buddhist deities in niches amidst clouds and small Buddha images. The decorative niches are called "arch of glory". These are popular motifs in Tibet and Nepal, and usually consist of a garuda at the top holding two naginis (serpent goddesses), followed by two mythical creatures called makaras (which symbolize the life-giving power of the waters), personages riding horned creatures, and elephants.
Status
Not on view
-500