Qing Imperial Palace: Mandala of Mount Sumeru

CHINA, Beijing; Qing dynasty

This mandala was a gift to the Qing emperor from the Fifth Dalai Lama when he went to Beijing in 1652.
At the center, there is a multi-layer mountain formed of turquoises, representing Mount Sumeru, which is surrounded by more turquoises, symbolizing the four continents. The round mandala is fringed by rings of turquoise and coral. The exterior of the base is decorated with a bead pattern as well as repoussé lotuses, vines, banners, and the eight auspicious symbols.
From the inscription written on the silk fabric found inside the lid, it is known that the Fifth Dalai Lama enshrined this mandala in Xihuang Temple. On account of its religious significance, the emperor later kept it in the palace. The inscription is written in Chinese, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan.