Monumental Burmese Temple Pediment Ensemble (5-piece, approx. 200 cm high) – Mandalay Style (circa 1900)

Unique object — not available again after sale. This monumental five-piece temple ensemble forms the complete architectural framing of a Burmese Buddha altar. Unlike the common loose fragments, this is an exceptionally complete preserved ensemble that was originally mounted as a single unit within a temple interior.

With a total height of approximately two meters, this impressive pediment forms an architectural work of art where traditional Mandalay wood carving, gold leaf, and mirror mosaic come together. An exceptional eye-catcher for a high-quality collection, gallery, or exclusive interior.

• ✓ Authentic antique: Original Burmese temple ensemble from the Mandalay period (ca. 1890–1910)
• ✓ Complete ensemble: Rare five-piece architectural altar frame including pediment, side wings, and support pillars
• ✓ Solid craftsmanship: Fully hand-carved from solid teakwood
• ✓ Rich decoration: Finished with traditional gold leaf and hundreds of original Hman-zi mirror and mosaic inlays
• ✓ Deep sculptural carving: Monumental openwork Kanyut ornamentation with powerful three-dimensional relief depth
• ✓ Historical construction: Original V-shaped miter joints and traditional Thit-see lacquer on the reverse side
• ✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha

Architecture of a Burmese Temple Altar

This monumental ensemble originally formed the decorative framing of a Buddha altar within a temple or monastery. The various components are designed to collectively form an impressive, symmetrical architectural composition.

• Central Pediment: The richly carved main pediment forms the visual centerpiece of the ensemble. The openwork Kanyut flame motifs symbolize spiritual elevation and protect the sacred altar.
• Side Wings: The two tall side panels extend the architectural composition and enhance the monumental character of the arrangement.
• Support Pillars: The original supporting parts complete the construction as it was traditionally built around a Buddha statue.
• Monumental Presentation: With a total height of approximately 200 cm, the ensemble creates the same impressive spatial presence as within a historical Mandalay monastery.

Forensic Analysis

Construction, materials, and finish are fully consistent with authentic temple architecture from the late Mandalay period.

• Solid Teakwood: All parts are hand-carved from solid Burmese teakwood with exceptionally deep openwork sculptures.
• Original Gilding: Traces of traditional gold leaf are still visible over the original lacquer layers.
• Hman-zi Mirror Inlay: Hundreds of original facet-cut mirror glass and mosaic stones reflect the light as intended within an illuminated temple space.
• Thit-see Lacquer: The reverse side is completely finished with traditional black Thit-see tree lacquer, fitting historical Burmese temple constructions.
• Authentic Construction: The original V-shaped miter joints confirm that the ensemble was crafted as a complete altar frame and does not consist of separate decorative panels.

Specifications

• Chronology: Mandalay period, approx. 1890–1910
• Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
• Type: Complete five-piece temple altar frame
• Material: Solid Burmese teakwood
• Finish: Gold leaf, Thit-see lacquer, and Hman-zi mirror mosaic
• Central pediment: 114.5 × 114 cm
• Side panels: 102 × 30 cm (2 pieces)
• Support pillars: 75 × 15 cm and 64.5 × 15 cm
• Total height assembled: approx. 200 cm
• Condition: Very well preserved with authentic signs of age and use consistent with a historical temple ensemble.

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

Read the shipping policy and the refund policy.

Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.