The baluster-form stems are richly cast with prominent lotus petal decoration. The outside walls of the lamp are engraved with a lotus scroll and with repousse buddhist elements. Height 40 cm.
Dents and tears.
Pal, P., Art of the Himalayas: Treasures from Nepal and Tibet, Hudson Hills Press, 1991.
Butter lamps are an essential element in the offering practices of Tibetan Buddhism and represent the offering of light to enlightened beings. Butter lamps are called “the Dharma light”.
Their form is reminiscent of the Christian chalice and they would have been used on an altar, filled to the brim with yak butter oil and with a single wick floating in each.