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Ritual Bone Apron
OriginTibet/Nepal
Date18th - 19th century
Dimensions24 1/2 × 31 1/2 × 1 1/4 in.
MediumBone
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art
Object numberC2006.69.4
Himalayan Art Resources Number65736
Project Himalayan Arthttps://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/related/ritual-bone-apron/
DescriptionObjects made from bone are generally intended to act as reminders of our mortality. Foremost among them are objects made from human bone and most of all, the human skull. Bones are selected with very specific criteria for various ritual uses. Some belonged to holy people. Others have gained ritual potency based upon the character of the deceased and the circumstances of their death. Some rosaries and ritual instruments, such as hand drums and trumpets, are made from human bone. Other bone ornaments, like the ritual apron displayed here, are made of animal bone. Similar aprons are worn by tantric masters during specific stages of ritual ceremonies to symbolize nondual wisdom while conferring initiation.19th century
19th century
early 19th century
19th century (?)
19th century
19th century
early 20th century
19th century
13th-14th century
18th century
18th century