15. A shrine for a Buddhist image China late 19th Century Ink on Cloth, silk curtain Dimensions: 6” x 8½” x 6” (15 x 21 x 15 cm) |
The shrine, presumably for an image within an imperial temple, as it is covered with yellow cloth, the colour reserved for the Qing Emperors. Three sides of the shrine are inscribed with lines of Chinese script which attest to its purpose, while the front has an arched shaped aperture, triple outlined in cloth. The interior is lined with pale blue silk and a blue silk curtain to protect the image when it was not in ‘use’. A fitted base with brocaded edging and stepped top to the entire shrine. Detail: alternate view |