A Turquoise and Gold Brooch, Mooneater (Cheppu)
Lhasa, Tibet, circa 1900
Inset with Turquoise, Rubies and Carnelian
4 1/2 in x 3 in (11.4 cm x 7.6 cm)

The magnificent brooch, known as Mooneater (Cheppu), epitomizes the most sought after article of antique Tibetan Jewelry. Until late 1940 Mooneaters were worn by Tibetan officials during New Year Festivals. This colloquialism derives from the festival Lunar Calendar and the article having the appearance of a surmounting Kitimukha (face of glory) biting into a large disc (moon). These components are ubiquitous Buddhist symbols. The disc represents a lotus, which signifies any beings ability to attain enlightenment, regardless of their origin; and Kitimukha is a talisman which protects the wearers from harm.

Mooneaters (Cheppu) were worn on a male official's right shoulder. It's a decoration with ruby eyes, carnelian cuffs and coral under the jagged gold Chain. It's dangling in front of the right ear of a male government official when escorting a Dalai Lama into his audience room for a New Year or Lhasa Monlam Chenmo reception.

Provenance: Bonhams Indian, Himalayan & Southeast Asian Art New York, September 23, 2020, Lot No 601.
Himalayan Art Resources Item No 1682

Excellent condition. All original, not retouched or restored.