Sutra Table, 18th century
Unknown artist, Tibetexpand_more
Lacquered spruce woodexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 97.85
On View in Gallery 212expand_more
Low wooden tables were commonly used by Tibetan monks to support their sutras while reading. The top surface is proportioned to accommodate the size and shape of a standard manuscript and the height is convenient for someone seated on the floor. Thanka paintings show small tables like this being used as portable altars set with offerings or ritual implements. The cabriole legs, construction techniques, and basic form derive from Buddhist altar tables introduced to China just prior to the Tang dynasty (7th century). Carved in low relief with religious symbols and brightly colored with lacquer, this small piece of furniture would have fit perfectly with the rich brocades and decorative architecture of a Tibetan monastery.
Details
- Title
- Sutra Table
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 97.85
- Curator Approved
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