Ancient Eastern Indian Buddhist Votive Stupas | Group of 3 | Circa 8th – 12th Century CE

Historical Context & Origin

Region: Eastern India, likely Bihar or Uttar Pradesh; Bodh Gaya–Sarnath tradition
Material: Moulded clay / terracotta with mineral accretions and possible remnants of pale surface coating
Period: Early Medieval Buddhist Period, circa 8th–12th Century CE

Description

A remarkable collection of three moulded Buddhist votive stupas, each representing in miniature the architectural form of the sacred Buddhist reliquary monument.

Although related in concept and construction, the three examples display distinct mould patterns and decorative arrangements.

The first features a broad cylindrical drum surmounted by a sharply tapering conical superstructure divided into prominent vertical ribs. Repeated horizontal bands articulate the individual architectural tiers, while a continuous moulded lotus-petal or scalloped border encircles the lower portion of the spire.

The second displays an especially elongated conical profile with tall radiating ribs extending downward from the apex. Within the recessed fields between these ribs are closely spaced horizontal striations suggestive of receding architectural courses. A pronounced ornamental band of repeating petal-shaped motifs separates the conical superstructure from the substantial circular base.

The third is somewhat more compact and particularly elaborate, combining stepped horizontal terraces, vertical ribs, small geometric fields, and multiple decorative registers above a tall cylindrical drum. The density of its moulded ornament evokes a monumental Buddhist stupa translated into miniature scale.

Their undersides are equally noteworthy. At least two retain deliberate central recesses or cavities, and one appears to preserve an impressed circular device or seal within the base. Excavated Sarnath examples are documented with seals impressed into their undersides, while other Indian votive stupas have been found to contain stamped Buddhist formulas serving as symbolic relic deposits.

Features

- Collection of three miniature Buddhist votive stupas

- Moulded clay or terracotta construction

- Three distinct architectural variations

- Conical and tiered superstructures

- Repeated vertical ribs and stepped architectural bands

- Lotus-petal and scalloped ornamental borders

- Substantial cylindrical or circular bases

- Central underside cavities on multiple examples

- Apparent impressed seal or device beneath one example

- Natural grey, buff, cream, and earthen coloration

- Mineral deposits and surface weathering

- Individual firing and moulding irregularities

Cultural Significance

The stupa is one of Buddhism's most important architectural and symbolic forms. Originally constructed to enshrine bodily relics of the Buddha and other revered figures, the stupa came to symbolize the Buddha himself, enlightenment, sacred memory, and the continuing presence of Buddhist teaching.

Miniaturization allowed ordinary devotees to participate directly in this tradition. Creating, purchasing, depositing, or dedicating a small clay stupa was considered an act of religious merit.

The British Museum records an 8th–9th-century Eastern Indian example measuring only 7.5 cm high and notes that miniature clay stupas were presented at shrines and placed within larger stupas. The museum further records that damaged examples have revealed stamped Buddhist creeds deposited internally as symbolic relics.

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology at Cambridge preserves excavated clay stupas described as conical, moulded with rows of raised lines, and constructed with straight-sided bases—features strongly echoed in the present group.

These objects therefore represent far more than miniature architectural models; they belong to a devotional tradition in which sacred architecture, pilgrimage, religious merit, and portable material culture converged.

Condition

Ancient archaeological condition with substantial age-related surface wear throughout.

The three stupas exhibit abrasions, mineral deposits, discoloration, pitting, edge wear, small losses, firing irregularities, and areas of softened moulded detail. One example displays a notable old crack across the upper conical section together with additional fine age-related fissures.

The pale surfaces vary considerably between the three pieces and may include natural earthen accretions, weathered slip, lime-based surface treatment, or later deposits.

The undersides exhibit expected archaeological wear and irregularity, including cavities and impressed features associated with their original construction or devotional use.

Dimensions (Approximate)

Stupa 1:
Height: 3.5 in
Diameter: 2.25 in

Stupa 2:
Height: 3.25 in
Diameter: 2.7 in

Stupa 3:
Height: 3.25 in
Diameter: 3.8 in

Age (Approximate)

800–1,200 years old

Provenance

Formerly part of a private collection in New Jersey, USA; subsequently handled by Eternity Gallery, Tampa, Florida, USA.

Eternity Gallery is a Tampa-based art and antiques dealer and auction house active on the international market since at least 2013, handling a broad range of material including Asian and European art, ceramics, bronzes, archaeological objects, Islamic art, Pre-Columbian antiquities, and other historic works.

Learn More

View a related Eastern Indian terracotta votive stupa at The British Museum

Browse Our Collection of Buddhist & Hindu Relics & Sacred Statues