Qing Dynasty
Height: 48cm

Each emblem is supported by a begonia-shaped red sandalwood base carved with patterns, with gold-based sea water patterns on the surface. The column erected on the base is inlaid with rubies and sapphires or two opals on the front, with turquoise-inlaid curling leaves on both sides. On top of the column, there's an oval upward-facing or downward-facing lotus flower adorned with patterns of flying bats and round "shou" (longevity) characters inlaid with coral, lapis lazuli and turquoises against the background of lotus petal patterns. The wasp waist of the lotus flower is ringed with rubies, sapphires, opals, tourmalines etc. A square column is erected in the center of the lotus flower, holding one of the gem-inlaid emblems. All eight emblems are decorated with precious stones and turquoise flames at the top.

The eight sacred emblems of Tibetan Buddhism are meant to be presented in front of a Buddha image. They include the Wheel of Dharma, Conch Shell, Parasol, the Standard of Victory, Lotus, Treasure Vase, Gold Fish, and the Endless Knot. Each of the gold-based artworks is exquisitely made and luxuriously decorated, and inlaid with over 200 precious stones of various sorts.