Striking Large Antique Shaman Ancestor or Guru Phurba (Ritual Dagger)

This striking antique shaman phurba is exceptionally large, and dominated by a huge naked standing figure with hands together in prayer.  The figure probably represents an ancestor or guru rather than the shaman himself, as shaman are usually depicted wearing a mala or bell-chain.

The figure stands on plinth that sits on the head of a mythical bird-like Makara with a scaly back running down one of the three-sided blades.  The other two sides feature entwined nagas.

It is in excellent condition, and has a fantastic polished surface patina that has been built up with handling and use over the shaman’s life-time.

This striking antique phurba is definately one of a kind, and looks and feels purposeful and powerful.