A TIBETAN GILT-COPPER SCULPTURE OF A LUNGTA

18TH/19TH CENTURY

Depicting a 'Wind Horse', carrying a flaming cintamani, the wish-fulfilling jewel, on his back, all within a gilt-copper aureole and upon a leafy lotus throne, 12.5cm, 138g.

This sculpture was probably made as an offering for a Buddhist altar. Tibetans believe that the lungta is a powerful symbol which brings good luck and prosperity. Lungta also symbolise human vitality.