Thai Wood Mini Altar

A little shrine with a mirrored heart and a flaming crown of gilt.

This mini altar was made in Thailand in the 19th century in wood and glass. Small altars and shrines of this kind are commonly associated with Buddhist devotion in Southeast Asia. The red lacquered platform rests on short curved feet, below a tall, pierced openwork backdrop in gold, pink and green, with a pointed finial. A faceted glass panel sits at the center. A gilt border of leafy ornament runs along the front edge, and the paint shows its age.

About fifteen inches tall and thirteen wide. A dramatic little stage for whatever you place on it.