Mindfulness Meditation · Gratitude
This week’s meditation session is led by Kimberly Brown and the theme is Gratitude. The guided meditation begins at 09:05.
A parcel-gilt silver ritual ewer; Tibet or Mongolia; 19th century; Parcel-gilt silver; 11 1/8 × 6 3/4 × 4 in.; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2011.11
Offerings are a meaningful expression of gratitude. This elaborate ritual ewer is intended for pouring liquid offerings on a daily basis and during initiation ceremonies and other rituals. It could have been part of a monastic setting or a lay household shrine. It is an example of the exquisite silver metalwork with traditional Tibetan symbols and aesthetic elements found in ritual items from the region.
The central decorative motif on the belly of the vessel is a gilt dragon surrounded by the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Tibetan Buddhism, which are highlighted in gold. The spout emerges from the mouth of a water monster (makara). The base is in the pattern of a stylized lotus. This is akin to many sculptures from the region.
Kimberly Brown is a meditation teacher and author. She leads classes and retreats that emphasize the power of compassion and kindness meditation to reconnect us to ourselves and others. She studies in both the Tibetan and Insight schools of Buddhism and is a certified mindfulness instructor. Her latest book is Happy Relationships: 25 Buddhist Practices to Transform Your Connection with Your Partner, Family, and Friends. You can learn more about Kimberly at meditationwithheart.com.
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