Tall Altar Cabinet with Shelves and Dragon & Textile Motif
Tall Altar Cabinet with Shelves and Dragon & Textile Motif
Late 18th - Early 19th Century, Ngari, West Tibet
Painted on Wood.
Mineral Pigments, Gesso, and Gold Gilt
An altar cabinet of such tall dimensions and design is an unusual find. Dominating the top panel is a powerful front-facing dragon, rising above mountains and oceans to flit among the clouds. The mythical creature grins widely, clutching a gem in each of its four-clawed hands as it gazes out with tenacity. Streaking from its proportionately large head is it's bright green mane that serves as a lovely contrast of colour to the red background.
This altar cabinet most likely belonged to a monastery. The altar shelf was used to hold Buddha statues, while the top of the cabinet held various offerings such as butter lamps and pure water cups. The lower cabinet served as a perfect storage space for precious objects and manuscripts.
Dimensions
Width: 71 cm / 28 inches
Depth: 43.5 cm / 17 inches
Height (to top of cabinet): 99.5 cm / 39.25 inches
Height (to top): 192 cm / 76 inches