Page 82 - Bonhams Himalayan, Indian Art march 2015

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A large set of ritual objects
Eastern Tibet, 19th century
In various media including wood, silver and gold overlay, turquoise, coral, peacock feathers,
and silk brocade skirts, comprising: a torma (lha gya tor chig), a long-life vase (Tshe-bum);
pair of Oboes (Gyaling); pair of Long Horns (Dung Chen); three skull cup-kapalas (Tod-pa);
pair of Peacock Vases (Bumpa); covered container (Dru po); cylindrical container (dug drab
dze sum gyi nod); spouted pot and five silver dishes (lan chags torma); two Spoons (men-ra
tur) and ritual peg (Purbha). (22)
Telescopic horns: 83 in. (210.9 cm) long; Oboes: 24 1/2 in. (62.2 cm) long; Kapalas; 7 1/2 in.
(19 cm) high; Spouted pot: 7 in. (17.8 cm) diameter; Purbha: 10 3/4 in. (27.3 cm) long
$40,000 - 60,000

This grouping contains implements that would cater to various teachings and rituals
throughout the year. The fine craftsmanship and lavish use of silver and gold indicate an
important commission typically associated with the craftsmen of Eastern Tibet in Derge. Full
sets of ritual implements were often offered to teachers from wealthy patrons and disciples,
and the carefully crafted objects depicted here are clearly from such a set.

Compare with ritual implements held in the Qing Palace Collection (see Cultural Relics of
Tibetan Buddhism, Beijing, 1992, pp. 184-191, nos 140-147) and examples in Potala Palace
Collection (Berger, et. al, Tibet: Treasures from the Roof of the World, Santa Ana, 2003, pp.
86-91, 112-9, nos. 30, 31 & 46-9). Also see Rhie & Thurman, A Shrine for Tibet, New York,
2009, pp. 50, 96, 196, 238-64, nos. VI-6 - VII-9.

Referenced
HAR – himalayanart.org/image.cfm/41253.html

Provenance
Private American Collection, acquired in the 1990s

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