Painted Tibetan Torgam Offering Cabinet - 19thC

This antique Tibetan torgam cabinet is from the Kham region in Eastern Tibet. Original polychrome painted Tibetan torgam cabinets are very unusual to find with most being either reproduction or repainted. Smaller torgam were found in private homes but larger pieces like this would have likely been used in monasteries. They were used to house torma, offering sculptures made from butter and barley flour. Torma offerings were most commonly made during Losar celebrations at Tibetan New Year. 

The majority of torgam depict wrathful deities, scenes of humans being tortured by demons, and human organs as offerings to the gods. As such, a torgam like this with auspicious symbols is very unusual to find. The following auspicious symbols can be seen on the cabinet doors:

- Red coral, an item of immense value. 

- The conch shows the spread of Buddha's teaching

- Various possessions of the Chakravartin including the generals insignia.

- Cintamani, the flaming wish granting jewels

- The trident, showing mastery over the past, present and future. 

- The scepter

- Precious parasol giving protection from all evil.

- Two golden fish symbolise the escape from the ocean of early life and suffering

- The victory banner depicts the victory of knowledge over ignorance.

- The kings earrings, a symbol of comprehension of Buddha's teachings

- Tsebum or long life vase which contained the nectar of immortality

- The lotus flower has its roots in mud yet beauty blossoms. Like the lotus, even the impure can reach enlightenment and mental purity. 

- Wheel of Dharma symbolises the eightfold path of Buddhadharma leading to perfection.

- Endless knot is the intertwining of wisdom and compassion.

SImilar examples and further information can be found on pages 41, 42 & 104 of 'Tibetan Furniture: Identifying, Appreciating, Collecting' by Chris Buckley.

From Tibet

91 x 37 x 117 (wxdxh cms)

UK Delivery Charge - except Highlands & Islands £80
More delivery options available at checkout