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Tibetan Bodhiseed Prayer Beads
OriginTibet
Date19th century
Dimensions34 1/4 × 2 × 1/2 in.
MediumPhoenix eye bodhiseed, rudraksha and bronze
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art, Gift of Anne Breckenridge Dorsey
Object numberC2012.6.6
DescriptionThis Tibetan prayer beads strand (trengwa) exemplifies the simple but traditional structure of prayer beads used by Tibetan Buddhists. The 108 beads can be used universally for all types of practices but are said to be especially suitable for practices of increase or expansion. The 108 beads are usually divided into 4 groups of 27 by 3 additional separator beads, typically of a different material and a bead that connects the two ends of a strand, usually a little larger and topped by a stupa shaped attachment, called a guru bead. The symbolism of the guru bead varies in different traditions but generally signifies the ultimate truth, or Dharmakaya, understood as a formless dimension of the Buddha’s enlightened body.Not on view
19th century
18th century
early 19th century
ca. 1800
early 19th century
19th century
19th century
20th century
20th century
Date unknown
Date unknown
18th or 19th century
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