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.