Antique wooden phurba from Nepal. Artisan handcarved masterpiece with some minor imperfections and damages due to its age and previous usage, but overall still in very good condition.
Design characteristics:
The pommel and handle of this phurba are formed by a beautiful carved figurine of the guardian of this phurba, in this case most likely representing Shiva. On top of his head and around the handle, 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 the mythical watermonster Makara. 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 38 centimeters and weighs 249 grams.
Read more about the design symbolism and usage of the phurba in the general description of the webshop-collection "Ritual Attributes; Phurba's".
