Existing comment:
A Sacred Shape
Stupas, monuments containing Buddhist relics, are among the most important structures in Buddhism. Because stupas are ritually charged with the Buddha's sacred presence, their distinctive shape has special importance. Not all of the ritual objects in this case held relics, but all of them recall the shape of a stupa. They each display a dome - or bell - shaped body capped by a tall spire of umbrellas. Umbrellas are a traditional way of indicating importance, and multiple umbrellas indicate exceptional importance. |