A lavishly decorated trunk such as this likely originated in a Tibetan monastery, where it was used to store textiles, clothing, altar objects or other precious objects. Often commissioned by donors as an offering to the monastery, these trunks were intricately decorated by traditional thangka painters using vibrant pigments and gilt embellishment.
This 19th-century example is beautifully painted with an allover, triangular brocade pattern with diamonds and cloud-form medallions. Brushed with red, green and gold pigments, the chest is wonderfully detailed with careful linework and tonal shading. Botanical scrollwork accents the corners and a border of red flower blossoms encloses the geometric design.
At the center of the trunk is a quatrefoil cartouche painted with a flaming green jewel in an offering dish. Set on a lotus plinth, this gemstone is known as the chintamani, or wish-fulfilling jewel, and is believed to grant all desires. The chintamani is typically shown surrounded by flames, emblematic of the radiant wisdom of the enlightened mind.
The lid is opens by metal rings in lieu of hinges and is secured by a simple latch and foliate lock plate. Brass hardware reinforces the corners, shaped with leaf or gourd-form ends. A century of use has softened the trunk's original brilliance, transforming the once-lavish exterior with a dark patina, subdued color palette and timeworn appearance.
Additional Dimensions:
Interior: 30"W x 12.5"D x 13"H
