Qing Imperial Palace: Mandala of Mount Sumeru

CHINA, Beijing; Qing dynasty

A representation of Mount Sumeru, with a layered base, sits at the center of this mandala. At the top, there is a double-eave cylindrical pavilion surrounded by a balustrade. There are clouds on both sides inlaid with a red and blue gemstone, representing the sun and moon. The representation of Mount Sumeru consists of three layers, each with a tower on all four sides of the mountain, symbolizing the four continents. There is a seven-layer round platform beneath, with miniature pavilions on all four sides. A round base with raised ornaments depicts offerings such as the seven treasures of the cakravartin and the eight auspicious symbols. Three bands surround the round base; the upper band features lotuses and clouds inlaid with red, blue, and green gemstones, the middle band is engraved with a Tibetan inscription, and the lower band is decorated with a petal motif.