Tibet
Human bone
Probably 17th Century or earlier
4.5 x 1 in/ 11 x 2.5 cm
This is an exceptionally fine example of a Citipati “Lord of the Cemetery” element of a shamanic apron which was carved from the bones of sainted deceased monks. A similar piece is presently on view at the Metropolitan Museum of New York in an exhibition titled, “Sacred Traditions of the Himalayas” through June 14, 2015. #11485
THOMAS MURRAY