Mandala of Mount Sumeru

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This mandala stands on a round base. In the center, there is a circular six-tier terrace supporting a mountain. There are several square pyramidal pavilions on top of the mountain. The structure is a representation of Buddhist cosmology featuring Mount Sumeru and the four continents.
Round plaques erected in two circles surround Mount Sumeru. The inner circle features the seven treasures of the cakravartin: a Dharma wheel, jewel, minister, general, queen, elephant, and horse. The outer circle has the eight auspicious symbols: the vase, canopy, twin fish, lotus, conch, knot, banner, and Dharma wheel. The plaques have similar illustrations on their fronts and backs. They were created using repoussé technique and then welded together. They are supported by lotuses and lotus stands.
The base has three tiers. The upper tier features a lotus, jewel, and scroll leaf pattern, the middle tier has a repousse Sanskrit inscription, and the lower tier features inverted lotus petals. At the side of the base there is a ring on which ceremonial scarves are tied.