Stupa

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This octagonal stupa consists of a base, body, and spire. It measures 123 cm high and has a diameter of 22 cm at the base. The Sumeru base is embedded with lotuses made of jade and lapis lazuli, and there are small gold figures surrounding the concave section. On top is the body in the form of an inverted bowl, with eight niches decorated with colorful gemstones and lotus patterns. Inside each niche is a seated Buddha. The shoulder of the stupa body is embedded with rubies, sapphires, turquoise, and crystals.
The spire consists of nine stacked rings, each of which features eight ruby fringed niches with a Buddha statue. Each Buddha is made of white jade, cornelian, lapis lazuli, green jade, and amber. Above the stacked rings, there is a canopy with hanging decorations featuring longevity patterns made of gemstones. The finial consists of an octagonal harmika with a balustrade, a horizontal crescent moon, and a representation of the sun with a niche containing a Buddha. The finial is in the form of a jewel.
The entire structure stands on a Sumeru-shaped rosewood plinth. There are small golden figures on the concave section, and around the top is a balustrade surrounding its base.