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Miniature stupa
Miniature stupa

Miniature stupa

Place of OriginMyanmar (Burma)
Dateapprox. 1800-1900
MaterialsCopper alloy
DimensionsH. 14 1/2 in x W. 7 1/2 in x D. 7 1/2 in, H. 36.8 cm x W. 19 cm x D. 19 cm
Credit LineGift of Johnson S. Bogart
Object number1999.50
DepartmentSoutheast Asian Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
On view
LocationGallery 1
More Information

Miniature Stupas

Stupas—originally mounds enshrining the ashes of deceased holy persons—were among the most important of Buddhist monuments. Miniature stupas were common, and served several purposes. They could be donated to monasteries as offerings or, if hollow like several of these, they could hold relics or sacred objects such as religious texts. Sometimes they were (and still are) used for holding the ashes of loved ones.