Butter lamps are an essential element of shrines in any Buddhist homes, temples and monasteries throughout the Himalayas. The lighting of a lamp is believed to dispel ignorance and symbolize the light of wisdom. By making an offering of light, one is able to see clearly, focus and concentrate on meditation. Lamps traditionally have a hole in the center where a wick is stuck. Where butter is not available, it is replaced with shortening and the wick is made with a cotton wrapped over a wooden piece.
This exquisite 4-1/4c “ tall silver Lamp is handcrafted and has a bowl with a diameter of 3-1/4”. The lamp is engraved with floral designs and has a baluster-form base with lotus leaf repousse work. The lamp weighs 144 grams.
