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Pair of Cymbals
OriginMongolia
Date18th - 19th century
Dimensions5 1/2 × 4 1/8 × 4 in.
MediumMetal alloy, silk
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art, Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin
Object numberSC2012.7.12a-c
DescriptionThere are several types of Tibetan cymbals, distinguished by size and shape, which may be used in different rituals. Cymbals are among the most important instruments in the Tibetan Buddhist ritual music ensemble, essential for generating the overall musical structure. They may be used by the ritual chant master to guide the performers. Chanting and playing is an impressive skill, as cymbal rhythms often consist of complex formulas and fixed sequences of beats.early 20th century
18th-19th century
16th century (ca. 1500)
ca. 17th century
early 19th century
First half of the 15th century
11th century
18th century