Large Rare Antique Shaman Divination Lingam Singing Bowl – CP Bb2 & Fountain

Antique Shaman Lingam Singing Bowl.  Notes Bb2 & Eb5 (Crown & Solar Plexus Chakras)

Weight 0.93 kilos (2 lb 0 ¾ oz).  Size 24 x 6 cm (9 ½ x 2 ¼ inches)

This rare shallow antique singing bowl with its button lingam was recently sourced in Nagaland in North East India, a region known for its diverse tribal cultures, deep shamanic and tantric traditions, and some of the last headhunters. It is one of several similar bowls acquired during my recent trip to Nepal, and I very much doubt I will find more.

This particular Lingam bowl is believed to date from the 17^th or 18^th century. The fundamental note is a low perfect concert pitch second octave Bb (116Hz) when struck with a padded mallet, and an almost concert pitch fifth octave Eb when played around the rim with a wooden ringer. It is also capable of producing fountains if played with a little water inside.

This shallow flat-bottomed bowl has finely-forged hammered walls with a decorative band around the rim, below which are a series of ritual gashes, now faint. There is a well-defined button lingam at its centre surrounded by circles, with a matching navel underneath.

It is in excellent structural condition, with a clean golden bronze interior and exterior but with some attractive aged patina outside.

This antique Lingam bowl is of a type used by shaman for divination, and on ritual or ceremonial occasions.

A Tibetan silk brocade bowl cushion, a padded striker, and a ringer are all included in the price.

Note: Audio clips coming soon.