Three Figures Under Pointed Arches

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This is a golden altar triad: three figures side by side, each backed by a tall, pointed-arch aureole. At the left, a crowned figure in gilt-patterned monk's robes holds upright a red ringed staff, its rings hanging at the head; in the centre sits a blue-haired Buddha, both hands cradling a small golden object in the lap, expression composed; at the right, a slightly smaller crowned bodhisattva with hands sealed in the lap. The three aureoles share one design — golden frames pierced with flames and scrolling foliage, dotted with teal lotus buds, rising into slanting sharp points like three tongues of flame held still. Beneath each figure stands a matching multi-tiered carved altar, its panels deep with relief, the lowest edge finished in vermilion. Gold everywhere, with red, blue and teal used only as accents. Enshrined together, the three form a complete principal altar in themselves.