1998–Present :: Tibetan Furniture
In the mid-1990s Ira began to collect what was to become one of the largest and finest collections of antique painted Tibetan furniture pieces in the world. The Serets' passion for Tibetan art and furniture grew through their relationships with Tibetan communities and their support of endangered Buddhist Monasteries throughout the world. Dating fromk as early as the late 14th century, these trunks, cabinets, prayer tables, altars, and other specialty pieces represent how skilled Tibetan craftsmanship graced the material culture and daily lives in monasteries and private homes.
The Serets' collection of Tibetan furniture gained international recognition when twenty-four pieces were chosen for the exhibit "Wooden Wonders" held at the Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena between November 2004 and February 2005. To date, this is the most comprehensive overview of the history and development of Tibetan furniture, raising the awareness of the depth and beauty of this rich cultural tradition.
For more information on the Serets' work with endangered cultures, please visit the Jindhag Foundation.