Country Group: The Himalayas (Tibet, Nepal, Mongolia and Other)

Item id: 8193

17th–19th Century Tibetan Altar — From the Estate of Comedian Gary Shandling. A rare and beautiful Tibetan altar with exceptional provenance. The main structure appears to be quite early, likely 17th–18th century, as indicated by its construction techniques, the intricate and finely executed lacquer decoration, the hand-cut woodwork, and the overall look and feel of the piece. As is common with altars of great age, certain elements have been replaced over generations when parts wore out or decayed; some components—such as the backplate behind the incense shelf—may date to the early 20th century.



The altar retains a subtle Tibetan scent, characteristic of antique devotional furniture, though not overwhelming. Because of its age and fragility, it has been secured with Velcro in my home to ensure stability. These altars were originally designed to disassemble into multiple pieces, allowing them to be transported easily by nomadic or semi-nomadic communities. This is a rare and spiritually resonant object, enhanced by its provenance from the estate of the great comedian Gary Shandling. I also have a large 17th/18th-century Mongolian chest from his estate listed separately on my website.



Dimensions:

47" W × 23" D × 75" H



Shipping:

Pickup is preferred due to size and fragility. We will work closely with the buyer to arrange third-party freight shipping, as we cannot ship this piece in-house. The altar disassembles safely for packing, as it did when originally shipped to our gallery from Los Angeles following the Shandling estate sale.



A remarkable, museum-worthy Tibetan altar with exceptional history and presence.