Antique Tibetan Buddhist Monastery Copper DungChen

Details

Description

Late 19th/Early 20th c., Tibet. A hand hammered copper moniastic instrument with pierced silvered brass cuffs and telescoping length.

This … Read more Late 19th/Early 20th c., Tibet. A hand hammered copper moniastic instrument with pierced silvered brass cuffs and telescoping length.

This item came from Barbara J. Walters NYC apartment and was one of the exceptional, diverse, and fascinating articles the legendary journalist accumulated over her long life. One can but wonder the story behind her acquiring this horn - a gift from a Tibetan dignitary, a travel souvenir. Who knows? One thing is for certain, this item would make for a wonderful conversation piece.

The Tibetan trumpet is called DungChen, which literally means Dung = Horn, Chen = big. The DungChen is used in Tibetan monasteries for classical ceremonial music, often played by at least two monks. They have shallow mouthpieces and can play several notes similar to a bugle. Typically, they are used for a constant drone as a background for chanting. They are also known as Rag Dung.

Dimensions:
60"h (extended) 24"h (retracted) x 7"dia

Condition:
Fair. Copper with natural patina, scattered small dings, scratches, and rubbing to silver finish.

Provenance:
The Estate of Barbara J. Walters: 944 Fifth Avenue, NYC See less