This short strand of beads exemplifies the combination of aesthetic, medicinal, and symbolic attributes ascribed to prayer beads. Its pressed medicinal incense wrapped in kingfisher feathers would emit a faint fragrance when handled, as the warmth of the fingers would heat the incense. The kingfisher bird is a traditional Chinese symbol of well-being and longevity. The use of these beads would deliver these desired benefits to the body as well as the mind of their owner.

Artwork Details

Title
Pressed Incense Prayer Beads
Dimensions
10 1/2 × 1 3/8 × 3/8 in.
Medium
Pressed incense, rose quartz, and kingfisher
Origin
China
Classification(s)
ritual objects
Date
Date unknown
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift of Anne Breckenridge Dorsey
Object number
C2012.6.31
Published references
* Arts of Asia, 34 no. 4 (July-August, 2004) "Prayer Beads: In Asian Buddhist Cultures" by Anne Breckenridge Dorsey. Fig. 21.

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Merit

Concepts

In Buddhism merit is accumulated through engaging in positive actions that lead to positive results, such as better rebirths. Buddhists gain merit by making offerings, donating to those in need, reciting mantras, and other good deeds.

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Meditation

Concepts

A contemplative practice in which a person uses concentration and visualization to achieve aims such as transforming the mind and generating feelings of compassion. Techniques include focusing on breathing or visualizing oneself as a deity.

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Chinese Regions

Region

Although Tibetan Buddhism was not practiced broadly in China, the imperial centers, such as Beijing and Mount Wutai, emerged as hubs of Tibetan Buddhist cultural production. The emperors of the Mongol Yuan (1271–1368), Chinese Ming (1368–1644), and Manchu Qing (1644–1911) dynasties harnessed Tibetan Buddhist ideas to consolidate their power.

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