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Ritual Tray

7th–8th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Trays associated with ritual offerings have a long history in the Indic world. Here Shri Gaja Lakshmi, the Brahmanical goddess of prosperity, presides on a lotus as elephants lustrate her from pitchers containing lotus flowers. She personifies the earth, and the waters allude to the transformative power of the monsoons. Before her is an array of regalia and ritual utensils—including fly whisks, fans, and honorific umbrellas—and elephant goads, conch shells, and garlands. This tray was probably used during prosperity-enhancing ceremonies for a local ruler.

cat. no. 86

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ritual Tray
  • Date: 7th–8th century
  • Culture: Central Thailand
  • Medium: Limestone
  • Dimensions: H. 5 7/8 in. (15 cm); W. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); D. 1 9/16 in. (4 cm); approx. Wt. 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Lent by National Museum, Bangkok (K133/4)
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art