A skull kapala is a rare ritual cup, showcasing shamanistic traditions. They are used in Buddhism and Hinduism.
Material Culture, Philadelphia:
- Lot 24: antique Burmese kapala in the image of Rahu, 18th/19th century
- Section of a human skull used as a mortar to mix herbs and medicines for healing and magic; encrusted with dry lacquer in relief to create the head of Rahu, prominent in Hindu mythology and astrology, and known as the titan who swallowed the moon.
- Provenance: Lee and Vichai Chinalai collection.
- Lot 25: 2 antique Burmese kapala, 18th/19th century
- Sections of the human skull used as mortars to mix herbs and medicines for healing and magic.
- Provenance: Lee and Vichai Chinalai collection.
Tiger Tiger, Santa Fe:
- Antique Chin human skull kapala
- The Chin people of Burma migrated to the region during the late ninth century. These ritualistic skullcaps were deeply embedded in the Bonpo shamanistic practices prevalent in the area at the time. The kapala reflects the rich spiritual traditions of the Chin culture and serves as a rare relic of their ancient way of life.
Embassy Auctions International, Kinzers:
- Lot 232, rare antique Tibetan Kapala skull dating from the 1900s,
- an intricately and elaborately decorated human skull with silver and stones.
Tibetan Treasures in Northern California also sells kapala’s.
