RARE ANTIQUE GILT COPPER-MOUNTED KAPALA (TIBETAN BUDDHIST RITUAL SKULL CUP)

This is a rare and very fine example of an antique gilt copper-lined Kapala or Ritual Skull Cup (a Kapala is a sacred cup made from a human skull and used as a ritual vessel in both Buddhist and Hindu Tantra).

The copper lining conceals and protects the human crown within.  A copper band around its rim supports the cast head of a Bodhisattva flanked by two skulls at one end, and a single matching skull at the other.

It is in good condition and structurally sound, although the centre of the Bodhisattva’s crown has a slight backwards tilt.

Much of the gilt is still present and the outer surface has a particularly beautiful rich golden colour and patina.

This Kapala Skull Cup is a genuine ritual item and not a modern item or reproduction.   It was verbally appraised by 2 experts in Nepal, where it was sourced in 2014, and deemed to be a superb example of its kind dating from the 18th or 19th century.  It could be Tibetan in origin, but more likely Newari.

It is a fascinating and beautiful object in its own right, with the look and feel of sacred purpose and antiquity.  It feels very special when held in the hand.  It would be at home on an altar or shrine, or simply as part of a display of sacred artifacts. It will appeal to Practicing Buddhists in particular.