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Image Not Available for Sankha (Conch shell trumpet)
Sankha (Conch shell trumpet)
Image Not Available for Sankha (Conch shell trumpet)

Sankha (Conch shell trumpet)

Maker
MediumSilver, conch shell, turquoise
Dimensions13 × 6 inches (33 × 15.2 cm)
CultureTibet
ClassificationsMetalwork
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Stanley A. Weeks
Terms
  • Metalwork
  • turquoise
  • Tibetan
Object number91.049.002
Label CopyAn important ritual object in Tibetan Buddhism, the conch shell horn is blown during rituals as a sound offering. Also used for calling the monks together, larger ones would be blown from a monastery rooftop. In addition to its decorativeness, the metal "shield" serves practical functions: to protect the edge of the shell, assist in holding the horn, and as a means to adjust the shape or size of the shell.
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