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Miniature Shrine
Tibetan, Buddhist
18th–19th century
Object Place: Tibet
Medium/Technique
Wood (juniperus tibetica), clay, pigment, brass
Dimensions
86.5 x 56.5 x 15 cm (34 1/16 x 22 1/4 x 5 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Harriet Otis Cruft Fund
Accession Number17.67
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAsia
ClassificationsReligious and cult objects
DescriptionMiniature shrine: polychromed wood cabinet with two doors that open to reveal numerous small terracotta Buddha figures that are adhered to the rear interior wall. The exterior of the shrine is painted on the facade in red and gold, with dancing celestials on the panel beneath the door opening. The edges around the door opening are chip-carved and painted in black and red. Some of the Buddha figures are painted in gold and blue. These small molded terracottas are probably votive figures, mass produced at pilgrimage sites for use as offerings, amulets, and souvenirs.
Provenance1917, purchased by Ananda Coomaraswamy for the MFA. (Accession Date: January 4, 1917)