Thighbone Trumpet
Unknown Artist
c. 1800
Medium
bone, leather, and copper alloy
Dimensions
w. 7 cm, l. 32.4 cm
Classification
Musical Instrument
Department
Indian and Southeast Asian Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
The Charles G. King Jr. collection; Gift of Ralph King in memory of Charles G. King Jr.
Accession Number
1918.389
About this artwork
Blown during tantric Buddhist rituals, this ritual instrument is made of bone to remind practitioners of the impermanence of the corporeal body. The horn is sounded to clear away obstacles to enlightenment, conceived as enemies in battle.