Tibetan Ritual Bell Appraisal

Tibetan Buddhist Ghanta Bell

This item is a traditional Tibetan Ghanta (dril-bu), a hand bell cast from a heavy metal alloy, likely bronze or bell metal, with a distinct silver-gold colored finish. The bell measures approximately 5 to 7 inches in height and features intricate relief carvings. The upper section of the body is decorated with lotus petals, while the main waist displays a series of eight decorative garlands holding various symbols. The handle is highly ornate, featuring the face of a deity (likely Prajnaparamita) crowned by a five-pronged vajra (dorje) finial. The vajra represents the masculine principle of method, while the bell itself represents the feminine principle of wisdom. The construction shows signs of traditional sand-casting, with some loss of fine detail indicating an older mold or frequent polishing. The metal exhibits a soft, aged patina with minor oxidation and darkening in the deeper crevices. There are no visible maker's marks, which is typical for these ritual objects. Its style suggests a mid-20th-century origins, common for ceremonial use or as high-quality tourist items from the Himalayan region. The casting is solid and well-balanced, indicating good craftsmanship intended for ritual resonance.