The gilt bronze stupa cast in a hemispherical structure, the shape of the stupa represents the Buddha, crowned and adorned with many jewels, simulated with turquoise and agate inlaid, the crown is the top of the spire; the head is the square at the spire's base; the body is the vase shape; the legs are the four steps of the lower terrace; and the base is his throne.
Although not described in any Tibetan text on stupa symbolism, the stupa may represent the five purified elements:
The square base represents earth
The hemispherical dome/vase represents water
The conical spire represents fire
The upper lotus parasol and the crescent moon represents air
The sun and the dissolving point represents the element of space
Underside with incised quatrefoil flori-form petal visvavajra mark surrounding the centralized DaiJi.

Dimension: 6-3/4"H x 4-1/4"W

PROVENANCE: Found in a plantation home near Nashville, Tennessee in 2014 at a downsizing Estate sale.

Some missing turquoise and agate inlaid, otherwise in excellent condition.

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