Monumental Dynasty Altar Table. Early Qing Dynasty Zen Altar Table having lions legs with feet holding spheres. The concept originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism believed to protect from harmful spiritual influences and harmful people that might be a threat. Feet clenching the sphere also embraces power over evil.
This particular table has a very strong Chinese meander carved waist representing Infinity or Eternal Flow of Things. This supports the altar as to be the eternal flow of goodness is upward to the heavens, as this table stands frim having power over evil to present to the heavens. Carved vines represent the growth of Zen practice blossoming from the earth and the eternal flow of all things. An extremely important table once used as an altar host for a significant shrine. Rare and impressive with a sacred character, a very special unique table. Shanxi China, 1700