Materials:

Conch

Copper

Turquoise

Coral

Lapis

Dimensions & Weight:

Length: 11 inches

Width: 5 inches

Weight: 0.75 kilograms

Shipping Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal

Description:

This wonderful conch shell (Shankha) is decorated with repousse (a technique by which the artist delicately hammers the reverse side of metal to create ornate patterns in relief work) and gilt filigree work along with mounted coral, lapis, and turquoise details.

The conch (the first of the eight auspicious Buddhist symbols) represents the fame of the Buddha’s teaching which spreads in all directions like the sound of the conch trumpet.  It is a symbol which fearlessly proclaims the truth of the dharma.

The sound that’s heard from the conch shell is said to be symbolic of the sacred ‘Om’ sound which is believed to be the very first sound of creation.  This is why the conch is blown before any ritual or ceremony, since it represents good luck and marks the start of any positive or auspicious work.  Even today it’s believed that when the conch shell is blown, the environment around it will be purified from all evil and good fortune will enter.

The conch shell is a symbol of water associated with female fertility since water is a symbol of fertility and the shell is aquatic.  Some say that it resembles a vulva, making it an important part of Tantric rites.