Image title: Figure 4.5.29: A skull damaru for sale on consignment

[Figure 4.5.29]—A skull damaru for sale on consignment near a pilgrimage site in A mdo, with large plastic “coral” decorations in a setting of white metal, December 2017.

Gallery information:

These plates originate from the study “On the use of Human remains in Tibetan ritual objects” by Ayesha Fuentes. This dissertation examines the cultural history and material applications of human remains in Tibetan rituals, utilizing conservation, technical art history, and anthropology. It focuses on skulls, bone ornaments, and the rkang gling trumpet, investigating their use in Buddhist tantra and contemporary practices, while establishing a framework for understanding their evolving significance.