Dharma Shell, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A natural shell '法螺' with carved inscriptions filled with gold pigment. It has traces of pigment and a decorative carved silk cord at the end. The inscriptions indicate auspicious expressions related to Buddhist ceremonies. The inscription in the centre reads "进入利益吉祥白螺 丹舒克" and on the side "普陀宗乘廟 萬法歸一 恭供". This instrument originated in India, in order to vibrate the lips and produce vibrating sounds, for use during worship. 

Buddhism believes that the sound of the conch shell has the power to subdue demons and remove fear. It also symbolizes the power of the Buddha when he preaches the scriptures. In the traditions, a legend tells that when Sakyamuni first turned the Dharma wheel, others presented the Buddha with a white conch shell in his right hand.

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Shell length: 17 cm; Width: approx. 9 cm; Total length: approx. 40 cm; Weight: 396 g