Tibetan Ritual Musician with Conch Trumpet (Dung-kar Player)
Small Tibetan bronze figure of a ritual musician, depicted seated while blowing a conch trumpet (dung-kar). The piece shows natural patina, traces of original gilding, and fine casting typical of 18th–19th-century Himalayan temple bronzes.
TAX2 Report Summary
Material: Fire-gilt bronze (24 kt mercury amalgam traces)
Height: 11 cm
Region: Tibet / West-China
Period: 18th–19th century
Surface & Microscopy: Granular sand-cast texture, natural oxidation, minor gilding remains visible under UV and microscope
Condition: Excellent structural integrity, no modern restoration
Authenticity: 100% antique
Retail Valuation (1stbuddha): €1,200 – €1,600
Tibetan Ritual Musician with Conch Trumpet (Dung-kar Player)
Description
This finely cast bronze figure represents a Tibetan ritual musician holding and blowing a conch trumpet (dung-kar), an instrument used in monastery ceremonies to invoke protective deities and mark the rhythm of tantric rituals.
The figure sits in calm posture upon a small lotus base, wearing a tall ritual crown and flowing robes that retain faint traces of original gilding. Under magnification, the surface reveals a granular casting texture with aged oxidation, confirming traditional sand-casting methods.
With a height of 11 cm, this compact bronze likely served as part of a temple ensemble or personal altar set. The warm brown patina with remaining gold highlights enhances its depth and authenticity. The stylistic features align with Tibetan or West-Chinese workmanship from the late 18th to early 19th century.
Despite its small size, the sculpture embodies the precision and spiritual symbolism of Himalayan metal art, representing sound as a sacred offering within the Buddhist ritual tradition.
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Tibetan Ritual Musician with Conch Trumpet (Dung-kar Player)
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