Antique wooden phurba from Nepal. Artisan handcarved masterpiece with some imperfections and damages due to its age and previous usage, most noteable of which is a damage to the right side of the head (which can be seen on the pictures), but overall still in good condition. The wood has been further decorated with thin metal plating.
Design characteristics:
The pommel and handle of this phurba are formed by a beautiful carved figurine of a fierceful being, most likely representing Bhairab (a wrathful manifestation of Shiva). On top of his head there are still the remains of old fabric, that was given to this phurba (as blessing/empowerment/consecration) by its previous owner. Also traces of red powder (ochre or vermillion powder) can be seen on the figurine. This powder is used during rituals of activation, empowerment, blessing and/or honoring of the phurba. Blade: The blade is held by an abstract representation of a fierceful being, which embodies the activity of the phurba. In this case it is difficult to say what the being represents, probably it is a Makara or a Garuda. On the blade many traditional symbols have been handcarved, such as a dhamaru drum, a kalasha vase, a bird, intertwined naga's and sun and moon symbols. The tip of the blade has been wrapped around with metal, making it easier to stick this phurba into the ground.
It has a length of 33 centimeters and weighs 136 grams.
Read more about the design symbolism and usage of the phurba in the general description of the webshop-collection "Ritual Attributes; Phurba's".
