Unique Antique Himalayan Jhakri/Shaman Ritual Tiger-Headed Handbell

This remarkable and exceptionally rare museum-quality Himalayan Jhakri/Shaman Ritual Handbell was recently sourced by myself in Nepal.  It comes from the Magar people who live in far West Nepal, and whose traditional religious beliefs are Shamanism, Animism and Ancestor worship.

It features a standing figure with hand’s together in prayer.  It is probably a representation of the bell’s creator and owner, or his/her personal guru, wearing a long mala or bell chain around the neck.    The head is clearly that of a tiger, or perhaps the figure is wearing a tiger mask.  

The belted figure wears a star-shaped headdress with a long ornamented drape that extends behind to the floor.  The centre of the headdress features a tiny circular hole that is sealed and almost certainly contains a tiny magical amulet.

This remarkable handbell has been hand-cast in a bronze alloy by the lost wax method and is therefore a unique one-off item.  It was undoubtedly made by the shaman for their exclusive personal use, and is an important ritual tool that would have been in daily use throughout their lifetime.  

Himalayan Shaman are required to make and use all their own ritual tools which cannot be passed on to the next generation on their death, and this accounts for some of their ritual items occasionally ending up in city antique shops.

It is truly hard for me to part with this wonderful shaman bell that sings a very sweet sixth octave F6 (1375Hz) when rung!  It is in excellent structural condition with an aged patina, and has the look of great antiquity and a special energetic feel when held and rung.

A unique shamanic treasure!