A LARGE RITUAL CONCH SHELL TRUMPET, TIBET, 18TH-19TH CENTURY OR EARLIER

拍品描述

A LARGE RITUAL CONCH SHELL TRUMPET, TIBET, 18TH-19TH CENTURY OR EARLIER The naturally formed, creamy-white seashell accented with small brown and russet patches, the exterior encircled by numerous finely ridged striations, while the interior exhibits a uniformly smooth texture. Dimensions: Length 28.7 cm The conch shell was considered a rare treasure in ancient times, with a long history of use in religious ceremonies. It was a common instrument in various ancient Indian religions and, most notably, in Buddhism. Legend has it that when the Buddha Shakyamuni first turned the Wheel of Law in the Deer Park, Sakra (the ruler of Heaven) offered him a right-turning white conch as reward. Since then, the conch has been widely used in the transmission of Buddhism as a symbol of auspiciousness and perfection. Images of conch shells can often be seen in Buddhist temples, on Dharma seats, and in the hands of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism. Making up one of the Eight Auspicious Signs (bajixiang) in Tibetan Buddhism, the conch not only symbolizes auspiciousness and perfection but also, due to its ability to produce a sound that gathers monks, the voice of the Buddha himself. Symbolizing the dissemination of Buddhist teachings across the world for the salvation of all beings, the present conch is more than just an object of beauty and history. It stands as a symbol of religious devotion and belief in a brighter tomorrow. Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Sotheby’s Hong Kong, 29 October 2024, lot 1511 Price: HKD 504,000 or approx. EUR 55,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the related form and ritual use. Note the slightly larger size (32.5 cm).

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