Stupa

NEPAL

This portable gilt bronze stupa was designed as an object of veneration for devotees while traveling. The stupa consists of a base, a body, and a spire. The two-layer base has multiple corners and leads up to Buddha niches on each of the four sides. The entrances to the Buddha niches are elaborately decorated and each holds a miniature removable Buddha. A kinnara stands on guard at each corner.
The stupa body consists of an inverted bowl standing on an upright lotus. On the harmika, there are nine stacked rings, with flowers embedded with jewels on four sides of the lower rings. The crystal finial represents the Buddha’s usnisa. A small pole holding a miniature banner can be inserted in the small bracket, which is an unusual feature.