VERY RARE AND EXQUISITE CLOISONNE ENAMEL MANDALA, model of a miniature building representing a Buddhist 'mandala'in three dimensions, embellished with colorful cloisonné enamel glazes. The round-shaped base delicately decorated with intertwining lotuses. Every level symbolizes a different realm of the Dharma. A raised square platform rises from the round base. A palatial structure rests upon the platform. Each of the four sides features a stretch of stairs in yellow, red, blue, or white enamel. The palatial structure is designed after flat-roofed Tibetan architecture. Ornamented with various golden images associated with the Dharma and Buddhist instruments.

Dimension: 22 1/16 inches high (56cm); 30 11/16 inches wide (78cm).

LOT NOTE: Cloisonné enamel 'mandalas' were particularly popular under the Emperor Qianlong for use in the Tibetal-style palaces at the Manchu summer resort of Jehol (present-day Chengde).
Qing dynasty cloisonné vessels often have gilded bronze additions such as elephant-shaped legs, curling dragon-shaped knobs, and spouts. The bright enamel colours, combined with gilt bronze, made cloisonne an attarctive medium for imposing ritual vessels and paraphernalia, as well as for large palace utensils such as ice boxes, fish bowl, incense burners and wash basins.