Antique Bronze Ritual Bell (Ghanta) | Vajrayana Buddhist Liturgy | 19th–20th Century

$400.00
$400.00
Free Worldwide Shipping on all orders
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
  • Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
  • Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
  • Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies
Late 19th–early 20th century Tibetan Buddhist bronze ritual bell (ghanta) with lotus petal base, vajra-finial handle, original iron clapper, dark patina from ritual use, used in Vajrayana ceremonies

Antique Bronze Ritual Bell (Ghanta) | Vajrayana Buddhist Liturgy | 19th–20th Century

Description
More Less

Historical Context & Origin

Region: Tibet, Himalayan Region
Material: Cast bronze with iron clapper
Period: Late 19th–early 20th century

Description
This finely cast Tibetan Buddhist ritual bell (ghanta) was used in Vajrayana ceremonies alongside the vajra (dorje). The bell features a domed body encircled by lotus petal borders and a handle surmounted with a half-vajra finial. Its surface shows a natural dark patina from age and ritual use, while the interior retains the original iron clapper, producing a resonant tone. Bells of this type were indispensable in tantric practice, embodying profound symbolic meaning while serving a central liturgical function.

Features

- Cast bronze ritual bell with intact iron clapper

- Handle surmounted with half-vajra finial

- Domed body with lotus petal motif at base

- Darkened surface patina from ritual use and age

- Produces clear, resonant sound

Cultural Significance
In Tibetan Buddhism, the ghanta symbolizes wisdom and is paired with the vajra, which represents compassion and method. Used in tantric ritual, the ringing of the bell invokes protective deities, clears spiritual obstacles, and embodies the voice of the Dharma. Such bells were integral to daily monastic practice, ceremonies, and advanced tantric rites, serving as powerful tools of meditation and symbolic expression. Authentic ritual instruments like this connect directly to centuries of Himalayan Buddhist tradition.

Condition
Good condition with expected age-related wear. Natural patina, surface handling marks, and minor casting flaws present. Iron clapper intact and functional. No repairs noted.

Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Diameter: 2 in

Age
Late 19th–early 20th century

Description

Historical Context & Origin

Region: Tibet, Himalayan Region
Material: Cast bronze with iron clapper
Period: Late 19th–early 20th century

Description
This finely cast Tibetan Buddhist ritual bell (ghanta) was used in Vajrayana ceremonies alongside the vajra (dorje). The bell features a domed body encircled by lotus petal borders and a handle surmounted with a half-vajra finial. Its surface shows a natural dark patina from age and ritual use, while the interior retains the original iron clapper, producing a resonant tone. Bells of this type were indispensable in tantric practice, embodying profound symbolic meaning while serving a central liturgical function.

Features

- Cast bronze ritual bell with intact iron clapper

- Handle surmounted with half-vajra finial

- Domed body with lotus petal motif at base

- Darkened surface patina from ritual use and age

- Produces clear, resonant sound

Cultural Significance
In Tibetan Buddhism, the ghanta symbolizes wisdom and is paired with the vajra, which represents compassion and method. Used in tantric ritual, the ringing of the bell invokes protective deities, clears spiritual obstacles, and embodies the voice of the Dharma. Such bells were integral to daily monastic practice, ceremonies, and advanced tantric rites, serving as powerful tools of meditation and symbolic expression. Authentic ritual instruments like this connect directly to centuries of Himalayan Buddhist tradition.

Condition
Good condition with expected age-related wear. Natural patina, surface handling marks, and minor casting flaws present. Iron clapper intact and functional. No repairs noted.

Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Diameter: 2 in

Age
Late 19th–early 20th century

You May Also Like