Thunderbolt Scepter (Dorje) and Bell (Drilbu) with Case

Thunderbolt Scepter (Dorje) and Bell (Drilbu) with Case

1800s
Country
Tibet
Object
scepter, bell, case
Medium
Thunderbolt: gilt bronze; Bell: silver alloy, gilt bronze; Case: grass
Accession Number
1986.9.1-3
Credit Line
Gift of Margaret Polak
Thunderbolt Scepter (Dorje) and Bell (Drilbu) with Case. 1800s. Thunderbolt: gilt bronze; Bell: silver alloy, gilt bronze; Case: grass. Gift of Margaret Polak. 1986.9.1-3.
Dimensions
height: 12.7 in, 32.2580 cm
Department
Arts of Asia
Collection
Arts of Asia
This object is currently on view
Thunderbolt Scepter (Dorje) and Bell (Drilbu) with Case Tibet 1700s-1800s Bronze, silver alloy and gilt bronze, woven grass Gift of Margaret Polak 1986.9.1-.3 The thunderbolt scepter (dorje) and bell (drilbu) are the most important ritual objects in Tibetan Buddhism. The thunderbolt is the symbol of the compassionate resolve to free all beings from suffering and the bell is the symbol of wisdom and the clear light of truth. The bell is decorated with garlands of pearls, thunderbolts, and eight Sanskrit letters within the petals of a lotus flower, and the handle is a half-thunderbolt surmounting the crowned head of Prajna.
Known Provenance
At least 1986, private dealer, San Francisco CA; 1986, Margaret Polak [b.1915, d.2009], San Francisco CA; 1986, DAM collection, gift of Margaret Polak.

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