Heavenly Beings Making Offerings

CHINA; Qing dynasty

These heavenly beings are part of a set of eight. They are made of gilt copper alloy and were created in the 18th century during the Qing dynasty. Heavenly beings are rarely depicted as the main figure.
With features of Nepalese and Tibetan people, these heavenly beings have round faces, big eyes, and pointed chins. The eight heavenly beings wear headdresses and various items of jewelry, such as bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Their stoles flutter around their bodies as they hold various Dharma instruments such as a pipa, mirror, ceremonial scarf, stupa, or vajra bell. A flaming arch in the shape of a lotus petal surrounds each heavenly being, depicted either dancing or standing.