Kapala (Skull Cup) – Tantric Buddhist Ritual Object with Filigree

The kapala is a ritual object of tantric Buddhism and belongs to the established attributes of Vajrayana iconography. Kapalas are used as a pair; the two skull cups form a coherent set.

These kapalas are made of quartz crystal and symbolically reproduce the form of a skull. Each crystal cup rests in a metal mount and is closed with a lid. The upper element is formed by a half vajra made of crystal. Each cup stands on a three-legged, triangular metal pedestal.

The mount, rim, and pedestal are decorated with filigree. Spirals formed from fine wire are filled with small arched elements and assembled into patterns. The ornamentation is interspersed with floral motifs. Along the upper rim of the cups runs a band of stylized lotus petals.

As objects of Buddhist art, the kapalas combine traditional iconography with a clearly articulated level of craftsmanship.

Kapala

Crystal, copper, decorated with filigree, silver- and gold-plated, set with colored stones. The Kapala is patinated. Handcrafted in Nepal.

• Height: 23 cm
• Width: 17 cm
• Depth: 15 cm
• Weight: 2,208 g