Description:

Central Asia, Nepal, ca. 19th century CE. A ritualistic bell made of cast-brass with an ornate handle that represents a dorje. The bell cavity still contains the original clapper held in place by a wire. The lip and shoulder are decorated with raised curvilinear motifs. At the base of the neck are three faces of bodhisattvas that support the handle. The ribbed finial is known as a dorje or vajra - literally meaning both diamond and lightning bolt. When a dorje is paired with a bell, this becomes a ritualistic object for Buddhist worship. The hollow dome of the bell represents the empty void, and the sound that the clapper makes represents "form, or appearance" - the opposite of emptiness. A beautiful bell that has a rich patina and a clapper that still emits a pleasant high-pitched tone. Size: 2.75" W x 6" H (7 cm x 15.2 cm)

Provenance: ex-Davis collection, Houston, Texas, acquired before 2013 from various auction houses in London and New York

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#138781

  • Condition: Small perforations on the dome and lip. Heavy surface patina on exterior and interior. Softening of details on the faces. Clapper still creates a nice tone.

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April 15, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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