Painted Floral Choksar Prayer Table from Tibet - 19th Century

An antique Tibetan painted choksar From Central Tibet dating from the 19th century. This particular Choksar is decorated with floral designs framed by faux bamboo and raised kyungbur gesso work. 

The panels feature blossoming chrysanthemum flowers framed by trees (probably Naga trees). On one panel a woman reaches up to pick the low hanging fruit. 

Choksars (as with antique Tibetan furniture in general) are becoming increasingly rare. Choksars were used as prayer tables by monks for reading scrolls and books. A yak butter lamp would be burnt regularly which is why so much Tibetan furniture is covered in a sticky residue. Our expert team has sensitively restored this piece, cleaning the residue whilst retaining its age and patina.