Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword

Tibetan

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 964

Intended for a ritual or votive sword, this hilt appears to be unique, particularly for its large proportions and its iconography. At the base of the hilt there is a lion-like head called a kirtimukha, which was widely used as a symbol of watchfulness, protection, and good fortune. Engraved on both sides of the hilt there are images known as wet skulls and dry skulls, which belong to the iconography of Tibetan wrathful guardian deities.

Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword, Copper alloy, gold, Tibetan

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Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword, Copper alloy, gold, Tibetan
Hilt of a Ritual or Votive Sword, Copper alloy, gold, Tibetan

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