Libation Conch and Stand

20th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
The conch is used to pour blessed water over offerings at intervals during Vajracharya rituals. In the photograph above, it is placed adjacent to the dharma dhatu mandala fixed in the temple pavement, which serves as the priest’s altar.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Libation Conch and Stand
  • Date: 20th century
  • Culture: India
  • Medium: Conch shell, brass
  • Dimensions: Shell, off stand: 3 × 5 3/4 × 3 5/8 in. (7.6 × 14.6 × 9.2 cm)
    Brass stand, at widest points: 2 3/8 × 3 1/4 × 3 1/4 in. (6 × 8.3 × 8.3 cm)
  • Classification: Shell-Implements
  • Credit Line: Lent by a private collection
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art