Tibetan & Nepalese Masterpieces & Curiosities
Creating Tibetan-Nepalese statues and religious masterpieces is a special merit within Lamaism, in which the artist finds unparalleled motivation and satisfaction in achieving perfection. Tibetan and Nepali Buddhists are devoted believers, so an artist must only work when in a state of great contentment and must follow the iconographic rules. Over many centuries, this devotion has made such respectful art possible. Today, such religious masterpieces are held by museums and private collectors, mainly in Western countries but increasingly in Asia as well. Because of the techniques used, each piece is unique, regardless of size or material.
This collection of masterpieces and curiosities from Tibet and Nepal complies with all religious and iconographic rules and includes some outstanding pieces that are unique worldwide. The wide range and superior quality of these pieces, such as the ghau boxes, surprised even experts who have visited my collection.
The Nepal-Tibet statues cast in copper are fire-gilt – a technique more than 2,000 years old that is common only in Nepal and Tibet. The very rare statues, ritual items and ghau boxes are made of silver or gold. Some statues and ritual items, but mostly the ghau boxes, are decorated with semi-precious stones or gemstones.
The help of various friends, with their expertise and contacts, was invaluable in collecting these masterpieces and is greatly appreciated.
Please note that the Thangkas category also includes some antique masterpieces.
FAQ
What is a ghau box?
A ghau is a Tibetan amulet box, often worn as jewellery or carried on pilgrimage. It usually contains written devotions or personal items and may be made of common metal, silver or gold, sometimes set with semi-precious stones.
What does fire-gilt copper mean?
Fire gilding applies a mercury-gold amalgam to the cast copper; heating drives off the mercury and leaves a durable gold layer. It is a traditional technique of Nepal and Tibet.
Can I see more photos before deciding?
Yes. Additional photos and information about any piece can be provided on request – please contact me by form, email or phone.
Important: all descriptions of the masterpieces and curiosities were provided to Fine Asian Art by the original seller and may contain inaccuracies. All indications of age are given without scientific testing. All offers are subject to prior sale and price changes. More information or additional photos of a piece can be provided on request.