The Qing Dynasty Tibetan-style gilt original old Gadang Stupa. The Gadang Stupa is one of the stupas in Buddhism, distinguished from the eight stupas of the Tathagatas. It is rarely seen not only in present-day Tibet but also in India, the birthplace of Buddhism. Within the Potala Palace, the most commonly collected items are small gilt-bronze Gadang Stupas. This stupa was prevalent around the 12th century, spreading with the transmission of teachings by the Buddhist master Atisha Dipamkara to Tibet. However, as the number of builders decreased over time, it became a prestigious gift bestowed by high-ranking monks and nobles.

This stupa follows the standard Gadang Stupa design, identical to those enshrined in the famous Five Buddha Wall Painting Hall of the Shalu Monastery in Tibet. It consists of four parts: the base, the pedestal, the body, and the spire. The first layer features a waist-tied inverted lotus-shaped pedestal, with double-layered lotus petals that are wider at the bottom and narrower at the top, creating an intricate and full-bodied design. The layers gradually ascend, forming a stacked circular pedestal decorated with protruding lines, topped by a bowl-shaped stupa vase and multiple-tiered platforms. Above the vase is a series of neatly arranged circular tiers representing the thirteen heavens, adorned with decorative motifs resembling those found in contemporary Tibetan sculptures. The stupa's finial is decorated with auspicious sun and moon symbols and ribbons, exuding a solemn and elegant aura.

Accumulated over centuries through lineage transmission and blessings, this stupa embodies immeasurable merits and virtues. Paying homage to it not only shows reverence to the stupa but also accumulates profound merits. Regular veneration and the construction of stupas can eliminate all negative karma, afflictions, and obscurations, including the five heinous crimes.

Both the top and bottom lotus petals of this Gadang Stupa are gilded, maintaining their pristine condition. This stupa was originally inherited from the Sera Monastery, and its original baseboard is exceptionally rare and precious.