The Michael Backman Example: Museum-quality Nepalese Gilded Bronze Shikarakuta - 17th Century

Unique Provenance: The Michael Backman Shikarakuta

1stbuddha.nl proudly presents this documented masterpiece of Newar craftsmanship. This specific object is the example that was extensively described and traded by the renowned London expert Michael Backman (Object 10026).

Historical & Museum Context

This elegantly proportioned Shikarakuta (temple shrine) is a rare religious heritage piece from the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. The form is directly modeled after the iconic Swayambhunath stupa. A directly related reference piece is in the permanent collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Documentation & References

For the full context and verification of the rarity of this object, you can consult the following sources:

• Michael Backman Ltd: View the original expertise of this object (10026) here.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art: View the museum reference piece at the MET here.

Forensic Audit & Details

The authenticity of this specific piece has been irrefutably established based on technical characteristics and documented provenance:

• Cast: Manufactured in two separate parts using the lost-wax method; the dome is detachable from the vase-shaped base.
• Iconography: The base is decorated with four intertwined Naga snakes and snub-nosed Makaras on the corners. The dome depicts eight seated Buddhas, including Akshobhya.
• Surface: The rich fire gilding shows the characteristic wear of a 17th-century object, including the original traces of red cinnabar pigment.

Specifications

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.