Stupa

CHINA

This gilt bronze stupa is modeled after a Nepalese stupa and consists of a base, body, and spire. The base has multiple corners with a Tibetan inscription at the front. On top, there is a two-tier round plinth: The lower tier is decorated with a bead pattern and four vajras, and the upper tier is embedded with gemstones of different colors.
The bell-shape body of the stupa is in two sections. The lower is decorated with a series of rings, including inverted lotus petals, golden upright lotus petals, and gemstones in different colors embedded in a trefoil setting. The bands are separated by bead patterns. The upper section consists of a plain bluish crystal, which contrasts with the intricate designs below and above. The harmika is painted with a pair of Buddha’s eyes on each side; the third eye between the eyebrows is embedded with gemstones. The symbol for number one appears in Nepali, and above the harmika are triangular panels embedded with gemstones, 13 stacked rings, a canopy, a horizontal crescent moon, sun, and jewel.