Molded Resin Portable Buddhist Shrine
Name/Title
Molded Resin Portable Buddhist ShrineEntry/Object ID
WD0100Description
A vintage portable folding triptych Buddhist shrine. The visual imagery within this three-panel travel shrine forms a traditional Chinese Buddhist assembly centered around the historical Gautam Buddha and an array of celestial attendants. The layout follows a strict hierarchical composition across the panels: Central Panel: The dominant figure at the exact center is the historical Buddha seated in the lotus position (padmasana) atop an elevated, multi-tiered lotus throne. His hands rest in his lap, forming the Dhyana Mudra (the gesture of absolute meditation and inner tranquility). Behind his head and upper body is a radiating, leaf-shaped halo representing his spiritual aura or divine light. Encircling the central throne are at least six smaller, vertically stacked figures carved into the background. These represent his primary inner circle, typically depicting an assembly of key enlightened disciples (Arhats or Luohans) and celestial guardians who attend his sermons. Below the main lotus throne, the base of the central panel is carved with a row of tiny, kneeling or standing devotee figures making offerings or paying homage. When the two hinged side doors open, they frame the central assembly and feature pairs of distinct figures stacked on top of one another: The prominent middle figures on each wing are standing Bodhisattvas (beings who have achieved enlightenment but choose to remain to help others). In Chinese Buddhist traditions, these typically represent prominent figures like Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin), the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and Mahasthamaprapta or Samantabhadra, identifiable by the drapery of their long flowing robes and their upright, graceful postures. Above and below each primary Bodhisattva are additional pairs of standing figures, bringing the total count across the side panels to multiple secondary deities. These function as Dharmapalas (wrathful or warrior-like guardians tasked with protecting the Buddhist teachings from negative forces) and divine attendants. When fully displayed, the entire inner relief functions as a portable mandala or a miniature depiction of the "Pure Land" or a sermon on Vulture Peak. It is designed to visually recreate a sacred celestial court, providing the practitioner with a complete focus point for meditation and protection while traveling.Type of Sculpture
Free StandingArtwork Details
Medium
ResinSubject
Sacred Celestial courtSubject Person or Organization
BuddhaSubject Place
* Untyped Subject Place
Vulture PeakCategory
Carved Resin