 |
Hor Phra Keo Temple: Sutra Chest
|
| |
|
Hor Phra Keo Temple: Sutra Chest
LAOS, Vientiane; 17th century; Wood with mother–of–pearl
This chest was used to store sutras written on palm leaves. It was made during the rule of Sourigna Vongsa (reigned 1638-1690), when Buddhism was thriving in Laos.
The chest is in the shape of an inverted trapezoid standing on a multi-layer base. The sides are lacquered and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The front is divided into two registers; the lower register has a floral frame, inside which are four Bodhisattva images, three vases, and a profusion of floral motifs. The Bodhisattvas wear tall crowns and sit on lotus thrones with palms joined. The upper register has a floral frame with four floral designs, flanked by eternal knots which are linked together.
This delicately and exquisitely designed sutra chest is in a style that was only seen in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. |
