108. Golden Shrine - for statuettes ((?) two)
Position.
(?) Not original.
Dimensions.
Max. H. 50.5; Depth 32.0; Width, 26.5. = External measure of shrine
Sled: L. 48.0; W. 30.7; thickness, 2.5.
Description
Wooden shrine covered with gesso (see note by A. L.) upon which the detail of the panels has
been carefully modelled in heavy bas-relief to receive an over-lay of sheet-gold, pressed and
chased.
It is of upright rectangular form; having a sloping (front to back) roof; curved in front, which
rests upon a torus and cavetto cornice; in front, a lintel, two door-jambs, and two folding
doors, bolted with <> bolts shot in gold staples.
The shrine rests upon a wood sled of usual dynastic type also covered with sheet-gold - the
gold here seems of different alloy, it showing more tarnish than that of the shrine.
The doors have not only two pairs of staples for the two bolts, but also a third pair of staples
for cord and seal. Over and above this means of fastening the doors were held in place when
closed by means of wooden pegs (of very rough nature).
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