Fabulous Rare Antique Newari Altarpiece or House Shrine

This superb antique Newari Altar or House Shrine is from my own private collection, which I am now downsizing.  It has been on display in my own sitting room, and was acquired from a Nepali antique dealer in the Kathmandu valley, where 50% of the population are Newari.

The basic structure, including the Buddha alcove, is carved in high relief from a single piece of hardwood.  The front and sides are carved and ornamented, while the back is plain.  It’s very frontal, and was probably made to fit in an alcove.

The wonderful mythical Garuda at the top was probably carved separately, while the central Buddha, and the two smaller seated Buddhas on either side might have been modelled in clay. Virtually the rest of the front surface is covered in 20 cast brass medallions depicting Buddhas, a crowned head, various Dieties, and 2 Lion-dogs. 

It appears they have been attached to the wood and held in place by hardened clay.  The entire shrine has been blackened by smoke, most likely from incense and a nearby fireplace.

The condition of this wonderful altarpiece is exceptional.  There are one or two aged wormholes in the back, and a few surface shakes in the blackened clay as one might expect in something so old, but these are insignificant and of no importance.   It has a fabulous aged and blackened appearance with traces of red tika.