Ceremonial Conch Trumpet (Dung Kar)

Some regions of Tibet, particularly eastern Tibet, are famed for their metalwork. This ceremonial conch trumpet is a fine example for such craftsmanship and is particular attractive due to its partial gilding. The metalwork attached to the conch is of two different types. The mouthpiece, decorated with lotus petals and scrollwork, was likely cast while the rest is repoussé. The repoussé parts are attached to a flat, undecorated core sheet of metal. There are very few elements that could give a hint to attribute the object to a time or region, and of these the representation of the kirtimukha, or “face of glory,” at the center is certainly the most important. The two cylindrical parts of this work are made of sheets of repoussé with diagonal decorative bands of stylized clouds, every second of which is gilded. In the center of the large rectangular panel is a horned “face of glory” (kirtimukha) with two hands holding a scarf. It is surrounded by eight mantra syllables in a script called lantsa. Beside the deeper relief decoration, the entire background has been incised with intricate scrollwork. The conch itself is rather small, and its decoration, an eight-petaled blossom and pairs of incised parallel lines, is rather simple but adds a special touch to the object as a whole.Trumpets made from conch shells summon the community to various daily ceremonies and accompany a variety of rituals. The instrument is considered easy to learn, so younger lamas and novices often play them. The instrument produces a clear, trumpet-like sound. The musician blows the trumpet from an opening carved into the shell, holding it horizontally so that the flag points upwards. Like the drum, its sound is considered a symbol of proclaiming the Buddha’s teachings.