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

Kapala pair, each on a stand. The crystal cups are worked in filigree, silver- and gold-plated, set with colored stones. As an offering vessel in tantric ritual, the kapala symbolizes the transformation of worldly attachment into wisdom. Kapalas are used in pairs, the two skull cups belonging together as a matched set.

Each crystal cup is cut in the shape of a skull. The cup rests in a three-legged, triangular stand. A lid, topped with a half vajra of carved crystal, closes the cup.

The stand is worked in filigree. Thin wire is bent into spirals, filled with small arched elements, and joined in an ornamental pattern. Colored stones are set within the filigree as the blossoms and buds of a floral ornament. The buds sit at the end of a curved pearl wire. Along the upper rim of the cups runs a band of stylized lotus petals.

The kapalas follow established iconographic conventions of Vajrayana art in the Kathmandu Valley, in which form, symbolic meaning, and ornament are brought together in a balanced composition. 

Kapala

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

• Height: 9" / 23 cm 
• Width: 6.5" / 17 cm 
• Depth: 6" / 15 cm
• Weight: 2,208 g