Buddhist Ritual Object in Form of a Canopy on Lotus Base

This piece was once displayed on a Buddhist altar in a group representing the Eight Buddhist Treasures, each appearing on a matching base with a lotus at the center. Common additions to Chinese and Tibetan decorative arts, the Treasures symbolize Buddhist ideals and include such items as an endless knot, a golden fish, and a conch shell. The canopy shown here, also called a parasol, represents the shelter provided by Buddhism.