Extraordinary Jambati Talking & Fountain Bowl – G#3 (200Hz)

Antique Jambati Talking & Singing Bowl – G#3 – Throat Chakra

Weight 1.06 kilos (2 lb 5¼ oz).   Size 8½ x 3½ inches (21.5 x 9 cm)

This bowl is unlike any other I have come across!  On the face of it it’s a fairly small antique Jambati bowl (small for a Jambati) with a good singing voice but no other distinguishing features beyond its rather graceful shape.  The fundamental struck and rim notes are the same third octave G#3 (200Hz) with a suede ringer, but the rim note changes to a fifth octave Eb (605Hz).

However, I noticed something quite extraordinary when I repeatedly struck the bowl to determine its precise Hz frequency with my tuner…it began to talk!  I soon realized that as I held it balanced in my hand it responded to the pressure of my thumb against the wall…and the more pressure I applied the greater the response.  Indeed, when it is struck with some force and then stroked low down with one’s thumb it positively squeals, although there’s a bit of a knack to it.   I have never known a bowl quite like it.  The sound is quite comparable to that of a normal talking bowl…but without the necessity for water.

This prompted me to add some water and see what happens.  Curiously it wouldn’t talk, but a simple strike on its wall with a padded mallet sends an instant fountain into the air.  Quite astonishing!

This antique bowl is in good structural condition.  It has the patina of long service and the look and feel of antiquity.  A Tibetan silk brocade bowl cushion, a padded mallet, and a ringer are all included in the price.

{audio}jambatitalker.mp3{/audio}

Listen: (2 struck notes, 2 played notes, suede then wood ringers, and talking sample).