Rare Antique Shaman Lingam Divination and Singing Bowl – B2 & F#4 Button Lingam

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 another.

The fundamental note is a low second octave B (126Hz) when struck with a padded mallet or played around the rim with a suede ringer. The rim note changes to a middle F# (368Hz) if a wooden ringer is employed. Both notes are fairly close to concert pitch.

This shallow flat-bottomed bowl has finely forged even walls, and a small but pronounced button lingam at its centre surrounded and defined by a single circle. There is a small matching naval underneath.  I believe it to date from the 18th century and is in good structural condition with some aged patina.

This antique 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.