Painted Floral Choksar Prayer Table from Tibet - 19th Century

This 19th century Tibetan Choksar (or chöksar) prayer table is a wonderfully preserved example of Himalayan monastic furniture. Used by monks as a low reading table for sacred Buddhist scriptures and manuscripts, Choksars occupied an important place within temples and monasteries, where they supported religious texts during study, prayer and chanting.

The front is decorated with three finely hand-painted floral panels in rich ochre, crimson and deep green pigments, framed by traditional Tibetan scrollwork borders. Floral motifs such as these symbolise prosperity, harmony and the flourishing of spiritual life, while the warm mineral pigments have mellowed beautifully over more than a century, creating an exceptional depth of colour that only genuine age can achieve.

As with many surviving Tibetan and Mongolian pieces, this table originally accumulated layers of yak butter residue from the lamps that burned continually within monasteries. Our restoration team has carefully removed this build-up using conservation techniques that preserve the original painted decoration, leaving behind the authentic patina and character that collectors seek.

• Origin: Tibet
• Date: 19th Century
• Materials: Softwood with original hand-painted decoration
• Features: Original floral painted panels, traditional Tibetan scrollwork borders, authentic aged patina, open storage compartments to the rear
• Condition: Very good antique condition with age-related wear, original paint and sensitively cleaned surface preserving its historic character
• Dimensions: W144 x D35 x H34 cm
• Weight: 14kg