Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), Shan culture, ca. 17th to 19th century CE. A human skull cap fragment that was used as kapala, a dish that is carved with a mythical beast and script. The kapala is used in both Hinduism and Tantric (Vajrayana) Buddhism as a ritualistic vessel. The word kapala in Sanskrit is "skull." The bowls are made to hold offerings, often to wrathful deities, made from human remains that were given a sky burial - he body stripped by birds and other animals until only bones remain. Part of the belief in the transitory nature of human life for these religions involves the use of ritual implements made from bone - the skull perhaps the most important piece for it once held the thoughts and wisdom of the person. Size: 4.75" L x 4" W (12.1 cm x 10.2 cm); 5" H (12.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#179860

Old losses and chips to edges of rim, otherwise intact. Bone has a dark brown patina throughout. Great condition.