Artwork Page for Thighbone Trumpet

Details / Information for Thighbone Trumpet

Thighbone Trumpet

c. 1800

Tibet

Medium
bone, leather, and copper alloy
Measurements
Overall: 7 cm (2 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
The Charles G. King Jr. collection; Gift of Ralph King in memory of Charles G. King Jr. 1918.389
Public Domain
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Did You Know?

Tantric ritual trumpets are traditionally made from human femurs, but now they can be made from plastic, metal, or other materials.

Description

Blown during tantric Buddhist rituals, this ritual instrument is made of bone to remind practitioners of the impermanence of the corporeal body. The horn is sounded to clear away obstacles to enlightenment, conceived as enemies in battle.

Thighbone Trumpet

c. 1800

Tibet

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