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Dharma Wheel
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Dharma Wheel
CHINA; Qing dynasty (1644–1911); Gilt copper alloy, cloisonné, white jade, and wood; H: 45 cm; National Palace Museum, Taipei, Taiwan
This Dharma wheel belongs to a set featuring the eight auspicious symbols. The other seven symbols are the lotus, conch shell, eternal knot, vase, parasol, two golden fish, and victory banner. These are widely depicted on Buddhist artifacts made of various materials.
This ritual instrument consists of a Sumeru base and a lotus, upon which a white jade Dharma wheel sits, surrounded by ribbons. The base has short legs with mythical creatures, connected by a series of curved leaf patterns above. On top of the base, gilt vines meander against a blue background that represents water. A gold blossoming lotus, along with a lotus pod, several lotus stems, and cloisonne leaves, appear growing out of the water. |
