Kadam Stupa

CHINA; Yuan dynasty

This stupa is associated with the Kadam school of Tibetan Buddhism. Although at 48 cm high it is quite large, it could be portable and used for veneration while traveling.
The stupa is made of bronze and consists of a base, body, and spire. The base has two rings of upright lotus petals bordered by a bead pattern. The stupa is in the shape of a bell, which is a distinctive feature of Kadam stupas. In the center of the body, there are two embossed rings. The harmika has multiple corners and is surmounted by miniature wish-fulfilling jewel emblems. The spire is supported by an inverted lotus. It has 13 stacked rings followed by a canopy with a bead pattern and jeweled pennants. Above the canopy, there is a lotus bud with curved banners on either side. The finial consists of a horizontal crescent moon and a sun surmounted by a ribbon tied in a knot.