Possibly Derge, Kham Province, Eastern Tibet
early 19th century
Possibly Derge, Kham Province, Eastern Tibet
early 19th century
The long mother of pearl strand of 108 beads has the characteristic two counters usually attached to the prayer beads of Tibetan Buddhists. Its exquisite red coral separator beads and ivory guru bead are complemented by red silk tassels and testify to the refined aesthetic preferences of its previous owner, a princess of Derge in eastern Tibet.
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.
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.
Today, Tibetans primarily inhabit the Tibetan Plateau, situated between the Himalayan mountain range and the Indian subcontinent to the west, Chinese cultural regions to the east, and Mongolian cultural regions to the northeast. During the 7th to 9th century, Tibetan rulers expanded their empire across Central Asia, and established Buddhism as the state religion.
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