Arching surround

ca. 14th century

This elaborate arch undulates like a floral garland and is covered with mythical creatures and guardians. At the top rests a water pot. It replicates in miniature various forms found in western Indian temple halls, including the elaborate halls in front of the Jain temples around Mount Abu. This piece, like the more complete shrine in front, would have been part of a multipart metal construction for Jain personal worship. Such small shrines once held an image of a jina (spiritual victor, a perfected being).

Cast copper alloy, silver inlay

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

67.130

Now on view at the Asian Art Museum

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing.

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