A beautiful ancient Chinese terracotta votive tablet known as tsa-tsa, made during the Liao dynasty (916-1125). The sculpture depicts three Buddhas sitting on a lotus flowers with decorative mandorlas behind their back symbolizing and emphasizing the divine nature of the depicted figures. Each character is highly detailed and has been carved in a different and unique pose. Everything is enclosed in a big, great-looking triangular form with originally preserved earthen deposits. Tsa-tsa tablets are unique religious artifacts used as votive offerings which were placed or buried in reliquary chambers to worship and to enhance the spiritual power of the ancient Buddhist temples. In everyday life they were also used as amulets to ensure success, prosperity and protection against evil spirits. Dimensions: 64 mm (W) x 71 mm (H) Very good condition - intact, well-preserved ARTIFACT WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY: * Acrylic presentation stand to show the artifact in upright position in its full splendor * Certificate of Authenticity document with all information about the artifact and its photos. Document is providing the owner of this object its lifetime authenticity warranty. PROVENANCE INFORMATION: Artifact was purchased by our company in 2023 from an ancient Asian art expert private collection. Previous ownership history: - Private Hong Kong collection of the owner of an antique shop from Chinatown District, New York, USA (collected before the 70's) - Ancient Asian art expert Z.D.L. private New York, USA collection