Tibet
Wood, with original polychroming
The chest is decorated in vibrant polychrome pigments with a central roundel enclosing a ferocious writhing dragon grasping a flaming pearl amongst cloud scrolls. The roundel is centred on top of a geometric tiger pattern which is set within cusped corner spandrels.
Tibetan chests and trunks were used as storage in homes and monasteries. Boxes are normally made from cedar, pine, or poplar. If they are painted it is usually just the front and two sides. They can either be painted directly on the wood or on some pieces onto a fabric applied to the wood. The colours and designs used are very decorative. It’s painted with paints mixed from minerals, as was the way during this period, and it will therefore always retain its vibrancy. The sides are decorated with stylised foliate panels.
Size (cms): 47(H) x 88(W) x 48.5(D)
Size (inches): 18.5(H) x 34.5(W) x 19(D)
